Sudan Activists Plan New Protests after PM’s Resignation

Pro-democracy activists in Sudan have announced fresh protests amid a political crisis deepened by the resignation of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok on Monday.

At least three protesters were killed on Sunday after thousands of demonstrators opposed to military rule took to the streets, according to a doctor’s union.

The number of protesters killed since October’s military coup has risen to 56.

The Sudanese Professionals’ Association, SPA, a coalition of trade unions leading the campaign against military rule, said protesters “will be heading to the presidential palace until victory is achieved.”

“You will not rally alone on 4 January! The Sudanese Professionals’ Association and wage workers are with you,” it said in a Facebook post.

The country’s de facto head of state, Lt Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, told military leaders yesterday that the army was the “nation’s safety valve” and that it will “protect the democratic transition.”

UN envoy to Sudan Volker Perthes has said he regretted Mr. Hamdok’s decision to step down and called for dialogue.

“The lack of trust among Sudanese actors needs to be overcome through a meaningful and inclusive dialogue. Unitams, the UN mission in Sudan, stands ready to facilitate such a process,” he said.

Mr. Hamdok’s resignation plunged Sudan into further uncertainty and could embolden pro-democracy groups as it hands the military complete control of the country.

BBC/Shakirat Sadiq