1965 he became President of the Republic of the Sudan, but this was primarily an honorary position with little real power. He remained president until May 1969, when a military coup d'état led by Col. Gaafar Nimeiry ended his political life. Known as a skilled if not crafty politician, al-Azhari was respected and loved. His tenacity to survive the many vicissitudes of Sudanese political life was even admired. His most statesmanlike decision - not to press for unity with Egypt - destroyed the principles upon which his political life had been constructed, leaving only manipulation to achieve political power. He died on August 26, 1969. See also History of Sudan (1956–1969) References 1900 births 1969 deaths Democratic Unionist Party (Sudan) politicians Leaders ousted by a coup People from Omdurman Presidents of Sudan Prime Ministers of Sudan Sudanese Arab nationalists Sudanese nationalists