Sudan has struggled to establish a stable constitutional framework since independence, as evidenced by the succession of seven provisional constitutions. This instability stems from the political elite’s inability to build a constitutional system that accommodates the country’s significant ethnic and cultural diversity. The failure to manage this diversity contributed to recurring conflicts, culminating in the secession of South Sudan and ongoing crises in Darfur, South Kordofan, and Blue Nile.N

First Transitional Period (1953–1956)

Based on the 1953 Self-Government Agreement, this period included the formation of the Governor-General’s Commission and the Sudanisation Committee. Although Sudan opted for independence, the period exposed early shortcomings in addressing southern demands, leading to the outbreak of the first civil war in 1955.

Second Transitional Period (1956–1958)

Sudan adopted the 1956 Interim Constitution, yet efforts to draft a permanent constitution failed due to political rivalries and neglect of southern calls for federalism. Prime Minister Abdullah Khalil eventually handed power to the military.

The November Regime (1958–1964)

General Ibrahim Abboud ruled through a centralized military government that dissolved political parties. Attempts at institutional reform lacked legitimacy and the regime fell with the October 1964 Revolution.

Transitional Period (1964–1965)

The amended 1956 Constitution guided the transition, marked by conflict between the modern, reformist Professional Front and traditional political parties. Elections in 1965 restored party rule.

Post-1965 Period (1965–1969)

Political instability persisted, with deep disagreements over federalism, religion and state relations, and civil liberties. Significant constitutional amendments—including the controversial dissolution of the Communist Party—exacerbated tensions. Failure to reach consensus on a permanent constitution paved the way for the May 1969 coup