“The Nashla, Referee!”

By Mahjoub Fadl Badri

The fans of the Sokarta football team, known for the sharp wit of the Adroub people, once called out to the Referee during a match. Their team was leading by a wide margin, and the game was nearing its end. They shouted, “Referee, watch out for the nashla! Referee, don’t let them snatch it!” (Nashla refers to a last-minute, unexpected goal that could turn the match in favour of the opponent.) Their chant, dripping with humour, resonated deeply.

Now, as the war approaches its final moments, with the Sudanese Armed Forces performing at their peak, winning battle after battle every day, we too feel compelled to remind the “referee” about the importance of time—even if a nashla seems impossible. We take inspiration from the Adroub people.

We are not the sole arbiters of victory; the world has rallied forces against us. But we do not fear them. God is on our side, and they have no protector. The signs of victory, by God’s will, are evident. The people stand firmly with the army, leaving no room for doubt. Yet, time is a critical factor, for as the saying goes:

“Everything can be replaced except time.”

Every passing minute is lost forever. The enemy, for whom this is a matter of life and death, is not standing idle. Those who have invested resources to achieve their ambitions will not simply watch from the sidelines. They will deploy every devious strategy to win the war—or at least minimize their losses and salvage whatever dignity remains after their disgraceful conspiracies.

Meanwhile, honourable Sudanese citizens—dedicated and selfless—are working tirelessly for our nation’s unity, safety, and advancement. They have no personal ambitions, narrow partisan interests, or dubious alliances. They are planning comprehensive strategies for the post-war period, envisioning a future where victory is achieved by the army, the joint forces, the police, the security apparatus, and the mobilized volunteers from all corners of Sudan.

These patriots eagerly await the final whistle to flood the field with joy and roll up their sleeves for the arduous work ahead. It is important to remember that the battles of reconstruction will be long, costly, and demanding, requiring every effort, every penny, and every second. As the saying goes:

“Destruction is easy; rebuilding is hard.”

The chant—”Time, Referee! Beware of the nashla, Referee!”—should echo in the ears of our leadership. They must frequently glance at their watches and focus exclusively on the war of dignity, for which the people and the army have paid a steep price in blood, lives, and resources.
The army has made immense sacrifices, with countless martyrs and boundless generosity. The team comprising the army, joint forces, police, security apparatus, and volunteers has decisively defeated the opposing “team” of militias, collaborators, and foreign agents, scoring a resounding 6-0. Even if the “match” were extended into extra time, a nashla would be unthinkable. However, caution remains crucial.
Our salute goes to the unsung heroes who toil tirelessly, preparing for rebuilding in all areas—starting with the restoration of the social fabric torn apart by the militias. They lay the foundation for a new Sudan, for post-war Sudan will undoubtedly be a transformed nation.
Victory to our valiant army.

Glory and resilience to our fighting people.
Disgrace and shame to our enemies and collaborators.
Victory comes only from God.
God is Great, and may the eyes of the cowardly never find rest.