The RCC, after neutralizing this conservative opposition, concentrates on consolidating its political organization to phase out communist participation in the government.

This strategy prompts an internal debate within the SCP.

The orthodox wing, led by party secretary general Abdel Khaliq Mahjub, demands a popular front government with communists participating as equal partners.

The National Communist wing, on the other hand, supports cooperation with the government.

The Imam escapes only to be killed while attempting to cross the border into Ethiopia.

The government exiles Sadiq al Mahdi to Egypt, where Nasser promises to keep him under guard to prevent him from succeeding his uncle as head of the Ansar movement.