The coup against President Gaafar Nimeiry marked a significant shift in Sudanese politics as it stemmed from widespread dissatisfaction with his rule. Nimeiry had come to power in a military coup in 1969, initially promising reforms but later leaning towards authoritarianism. His regime faced intense criticism due to economic mismanagement, social discontent, and a series of oppressive measures against opposition groups. By the mid-1980s, popular unrest had escalated, driven by deteriorating living conditions and political repression. Protests erupted nationwide in April, catalyzing dissent among various segments of society.

Amidst the unrest, on April 6, 1985, military officials, led by Field Marshal Abdel Rahman Swar al-Dahab, seized the opportunity to enact a coup. The military swiftly moved to arrest Nimeiry and take control of key government institutions. Swar al-Dahab’s rise to power was particularly intriguing as he was a former associate of Nimeiry. The coup was relatively bloodless, showcasing both the fragility of Nimeiry’s regime and the military's capacity to respond to public discontent. Following the takeover, Swar al-Dahab announced a transitional military council and promised to restore democracy and address the people’s grievances, marking a notable shift in Sudanese governance.

In the aftermath, the military's commitment to transitioning towards democratic governance was met with cautious optimism. However, this transition was complicated by the deep-seated issues that plagued Sudan at the time, including civil conflict, political fragmentation, and economic difficulties. The coup ultimately set the stage for subsequent political developments in Sudan, illustrating the complex interplay between military power and civil society in the nation’s quest for stability and democracy.