2September 30, 2022
Thousands of protesters took to the streets in Khartoum, Wad Madani, Nyala, Dongola and Atbara yesterday in response to calls of Resistance Committees to demand overthrow of the coup and retribution for martyrs. Marches in Khartoum moved from El Deyoum El Shargiya towards the Republican Palace and participants carried banners. The regular forces prevented demonstrators from reaching El Gasr/Palace St close to the Palace by heavily firing tear gas and using excessive violence. They tried to run over some demonstrators with security vehicles. The protesters closed several main roads using barricades and continued until late and turned into a hit and run with Police. Socialist Doctors Assoc reported 49 injuries, including 29 from teargas canisters. The Platform of the Revolutionary Forces in Nyala organised a march to demand retribution for martyrs of the glorious Dec revolution, departure of the military from power and a purely civilian government. Abdelazim Abdallah said the protest confirms the people’s adherence to their chosen democratic path and rejection of all attempts to dishonour the legacy of the martyrs…there is no choice for the military but to leave the political scene in order to form a Sudan that enjoys freedom and democracy. Wad Madani Resistance Comm organised a procession from El Khair Pharmacy to the house of detainee Mohammed El Fateh, nicknamed El Nana, demanding retribution for martyrs and overthrow of the coup regime. Dongola Resistance Comm marched in a 4-point convoy that gathered at the military hosp to
55 Resistance Committees and revolutionary bodies signed the new Revolutionary Charter for the Establishment of the People’s Authority. Tech Comm of the Charter explained that goals and issues will be the basic building blocks for a unified body that will include all revolutionary forces. The unification attempts came after calls for unity amongst Sudan’s opposition. The Charter provides for abolition of the 2019 Constitutional Document, inclusion of the Juba Peace Agreement protocols and establishment of a Transitional Constitution based on Resistance Comm’ revolutionary Charter. It stipulates the (civilian) PM is commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces. The signatories affirmed rejection of direct or indirect negotiations with the coup plotters and called for continuation of peaceful resistance. The Charter stipulates overthrow of the coup and demands accountability of all those involved from civil and military forces. Dabanga
A group of armed people in civilian clothes tried to storm the home of Wajdi Saleh, head of dissolved Empowerment Removal Comm,* leading member of FFC-CC and Arab Socialist Ba’ath Party, outspoken opponent of the ousted Al Bashir regime. Saleh told Radio Dabanga gunmen tried to break into the house by force and smashed light bulbs and surveillance cameras…attempted to break the door but failed. The gunmen withdrew to a location close to the house and stayed there a long time before leaving. Saleh expressed astonishment that no Security Forces, Police or local authority arrived to investigate, despite the fact that it had been published in the media since early Thurs morning. Less than 2 weeks ago, Saleh called for restructuring the military and security apparatus to purify it from remnants of the former regime who still hold a lot of power. He has been an outspoken opponent of the coup…he was arrested earlier this year with 2 other ERC members and detained more than 2 ½ months as an attempt to silence political dissent after the Oct military coup. *ERC was established by the government of Hamdok to purge remnants of Al Bashir regime. Empowerment/tamkin is the term the ousted government supported affiliates, granting far-going privileges including government functions, setting up various companies and tax exemptions.
The industrial sector suffers from problems that led to closure of many factories and displacement of thousands of workers…scarcity of energy and high prices, especially electricity, and devaluation of the pound against the dollar. Chamber of Industries Assoc announced 5,940 factories ceased operations out of a total of 7,350…attributed the cessation of industrial activities to high production costs, increase in service and customs fees and lack of foreign currency. Specialists attributed the reasons to problems caused by the government itself, including decisions to increase customs fees. Factory owner Ishaq Adam told Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that imposing large fees on industries contributed to raising cost of production…the main issues are difficulty of obtaining foreign currency to purchase raw materials, and weakness of the electricity supply in industrial areas which made many facilities rely on generators, increasing production cost. The source acknowledged the difficulty of competing with the imported counterpart, as it is unfair competition to national products, given the fact that they receive the support of their countries and enter at low prices. MEM
In a humanitarian disaster that may be the first of its kind, corpses are piling up in mortuaries in Khartoum in unprepared conditions, power cuts, leaving bodies decomposed and the stench of the dead, who were denied a dignified sendoff, became too much for those residing near hospitals. The incident shook people to the point that a sit-in was organized to protest an absolute lack of morals and absence of law. Wad Akar and his friends had no idea of the importance of pictures they took in front of murals April 3, the last time Wad Akar was seen alive. Thin black stripes over a white t-shirt and white plastic bracelet on his hand were among identifying signs that helped Dr. Khaled recognize Wad Aker’s body lying in the Academic Mortuary. His hair, dreaded like a Rastafarian, was shaved off. Dr. Al-Nur who re-dissected his body, found Wad Aker’s hair in his pockets: Whoever is able to kill him and throw him in a public place is an influential party. Amal, sister of martyr Muhammad Ismail known as Wad Akar, revealed her brother received constant threats from regular agents, who used to come to the barbershop he owned to threaten him, sometimes in front of customers, who testified they often rode pick-up trucks without plates. After matching the DNA with his mother’s, it was confirmed the body lying in the container in the mortuary courtyard among decomposing bodies belonged to Wad Akar. We don’t know who put it in the midst of decomposing corpses his sister said, referring to their demand for an investigation into the 1st autopsy carried out by Academic Mortuary Dir Al-Taher. They were unable to find the cause of death…but the body belonged to a male from So Sudan aged 40-50. The family demanded the autopsy be done again. The 2nd report confirmed he had been murdered and tortured…he died from a blow to the head. Wad Akar’s family demands the doctors’ committee be held accountable. Former AG Mahmoud joined the investigation into the conflicting reports, and the need to file criminal investigations against the medical team that issued the 1st report. However, this report turned out to be nonexistent. The committee investigating the accumulation of bodies found a report recommending the decision be returned to forensic medicine. A report under Article 130 premeditated murder revealed no investigation was conducted with those associated with the incident, police personnel who brought the body to the morgue and the detective. A member of the committee confirmed there was a forensic source who accused higher ups within prosecution of providing protection for forensic doctors who submit incorrect medical reports. One member demanded authors of the 1st report be held accountable, there was no chance of not knowing the causes of death due to the spasticity of the martyr’s limbs, which confirms he was tortured. The situation is the same inside morgues in Khartoum State as the huge number of bodies is more than 10x capacity. The corpses are piled on top of each other from the ground to the ceiling, men and women. The human waste leakage is blocking hosp sewers. The mortuary in Bashair Hosp is only 10m from the operating room and 200m from the dialysis room. The corpses have been piling up since 2019 in 3 mortuaries in Omdurman Hosp Mortuary, Academic Mortuary and Bashair Mortuary. While investigating who was responsible, Al Taghyeer met with 2 sides that pointed at each other, neither accepting responsibility – the Comm on Missing Persons and the Forensic Med Authority, each side full of foul-mouthed hostility for the other. Although former Dir of Forensic Medicine Auth Faqiri was a member of the Comm on Missing Persons, he places the burden fully on the Comm, while the Comm accused him of not implementing its decisions. 25 Sept, the Comm set up for autopsy and burial of bodies supported by a number of international organizations including the Red Cross, began with a thousand bags to preserve the bodies…work will continue 2 months beginning with Bashair and Omdurman.
Somaya Othman, mother of forcibly disappeared 24 year old Ismail Tijani, does not feel reassured by the AG’s decision to autopsy and bury the bodies. The mother of the young man last seen being chased by RSF days after the Khartoum massacre June 7, 2019, describes the prosecutor’s decision as an attempt to bury evidence along with the missing. Emergency lawyers joined families demanding the presence of international teams. Protest marches went out in the capital, calling the burial of the bodies a burial of the retribution right of the martyrs, demanding foreign expertise be brought in. The danger will not simply end with the piled-up bodies being eventually buried, but it will rather remain stuck in societal memory for a long time, driving a wedge between the people and forensic medicine professionals/institutions, which will require a lot of work to change. Al Taghyeer September 29 ACJPS called on AG, Min of Health, UN and professional associations to implement protocol on dealing with unidentified bodies. The urgent report established a definitive approach that complies with modern medical and investigatory standards. A point of contention was the need to establish a neutral and objective investigation committee including members from Sudanese Bar Assoc, Journalist Assoc and Missing Initiative to investigate new cases of fraud and reported harvesting of human organs from dead bodies by doctors.
Dir of Forensic Med Auth El Abidine warned the capital could face an environmental catastrophe due to accumulation of corpses. Families are wishing to find out if relatives are among more than 3,000 unclaimed bodies… demanding the government does DNA tests before it takes any further steps. ACJPS indicated there were confessions by employees in mortuaries and autopsy technicians of selling unidentified bodies. Through strong evidence collected by the MPIC they alleged human organ harvesting from unidentified bodies and concealment of the actual number of bodies buried…found a mortuary in Omdurman hid blood samples of bodies that were to be sent to lab of Gen Dept of Criminal Evidence until it became unsuitable. Middle East Monitor
September 28
The power struggle between the 2 military top leaders is no longer limited to the military but reached the civil service. The relationship between al-Burhan and Hemetti has long been a subject of speculation and intrigue. The junta leader insisted there is no disagreement between the army and RSF. But tension is real given concerns in military circles that RSF are growing in strength to the point they are viewed as being on par with the army. Complicating the relationship is increased demands RSF be integrated into the army, to which Hemetti expressed vehement opposition.
There is widely held perception RSF is responsible for the bloody crackdown on sit-in protests June 2019. The features of rivalry were starting to evolve in attempts of both to exert control over government institutions. Al-Burhan tasked Hemetti with heading an economic committee that would tackle longstanding economic challenges. Advisers warned him against accepting, calling it a trap by Burhan to set him up for failure. Among steps Burhan undertook was to disband the committee flushing out Islamists and proponents of the former regime from government…worked through the judiciary to reinstate Islamists* removed from their posts and unfreeze their bank accounts. Political analyst Idris agreed Burhan is taking this risky step of bringing back elements of the former regime in order to weaken Hemetti’s hand. Restoration of Islamists and ex-regime civil servants undermined his influence, given the animosity Islamists hold towards him. Hemetti formed a team of 5,000–8,000 civil servants in banking, commerce and media. The commander refused to heed the advice of Burhan’s orbit who pushed for withdrawal from the Tripartite Mechanism to move toward forming a Supreme Council of Armed Forces with overreaching powers. Hemetti’s refusal almost led to a public confrontation with Burhan that could have turned violent. Hemetti recently managed to earn rare praise from the UN for his efforts in tribal reconciliations in Darfur. Researcher al-Naim: the Burhan-Hemetti struggle for control of the civil service threatens the integrity of government institutions and erodes the concept of civilian control in favour of the military. Sudan Tribune
*Media is quoted as it appears, descriptions like Islamist are not necessarily accurate and can be used as a slur.
Al Burhan will visit Israel if he is invited and the means are available. It was with this clear audacity Al-Burhan spoke to the media on the sidelines of the UN Gen Assembly. The correct translation of Al-Burhan’s statement, without the slightest exaggeration, is that he wants to visit Israel and is winking at occupation authorities, asking for an invitation with comfortable travel. So now, the decision is in the hands of the occupation government…what means of travel he will come in and what class he will fly. We must take into account that this statement was not preceded by any sign Tel Aviv is interested in hosting the Gen, who appears to be re-presenting himself as ruler of Sudan with the end of the Transitional Sovereign Council’s term. This will be followed by elections he will not run in, as promised before, declaring he and the military council do not want to be in authority.
The current Arab reality tells us the more generals demonstrate their unwillingness to take over the affairs of government, the greater their insistence on gaining power. We refer to the case of Egypt’s Al-Sisi, when he swore profusely the army did not want to govern, he will not run in elections and did not like political work. The rest of the story is known: There is terrorism at our doors and conflict amongst civilian parties and forces that do not offer an alternative that protects the nation from the threats of evil plotters. What is interesting is that as soon as he finished flirting with Israel and western circles, Al-Burhan decided to fly to Cairo and not Khartoum, to inform his teacher and pioneer in the game Al-Sisi what he had done in NY. I said earlier, with the exposure of the secret meeting between Al-Burhan and Netanyahu in Entebbe, 2020, student Al-Burhan memorised the lesson after being taught by Prof Al-Sisi. He understood that anyone who wants power must pay a dowry to Israel, and Al-Burhan has indeed done so. He embodies one of the ironies of Arab politics, the first person to normalise with Israel immediately after announcement of the ‘deal of the century’, although he was the fiercest in expressing rejection of the deal and defending Palestinian rights during the Arab ministers’ conference.
Oct 2021, having met Netanyahu, Al-Burhan decided to disregard the sharing formula between the military and civilian forces represented by the government of Hamdok, and overthrow the partnership and the government. Therefore, it was said Al-Burhan’s coup was made in Entebbe where he met with the PM of the Israeli occupation government. Sudanese civil forces participating in the government announced their renunciation of him and lack of knowledge of his actions.
Al-Burhan did not miss a moment to present a new face that matches the specifications of a general in a civilian mask, as he spoke to everyone who sat with him, including UN and international officials, telling them the army wants to withdraw from political life. This is a formula generals always use before they take off the military jacket and put on their fake civilian face, entering political arenas fully prepared for the military to win even if their most senior official swore he does not intend to run in elections. Generals are always betting on the opportunism and pragmatism of the international community, and on that vast chasm between the elegance of principles and the arrogance of interests, knowing the latter often wins in all confrontations. This rule is only broken by popular revolutions that surprise all parties with their steadfastness and realisation that half-revolutions are defeat, and stopping halfway is a complete loss. Al-Araby Al-Jadeed/Middle East Monitor
The last PM of the ousted regime, Mohamed Taher Eila, announced his return from Egypt to which he fled after the fall of al-Bashir’s regime April 11, 2019. Eila’s announcement comes in light of arrest warrants against him regarding financial corruption while he was governor of Red Sea State. Lawyer and jurist al-Moez told Al Taghyeer Eila’s return must come through guarantees provided by the coup authority, which released some of the remnants of the annihilated regime. It is likely there is a deal between the putschist government and remnants of the defunct regime which allows him to enter the country…if the law was implemented, he should be arrested as soon as he enters Sudanese territory. Elia’s return is related to complexities of the political scene in the east and Sudan after the Oct coup. Al-Bashir’s PM may represent a major shift in political action in the east…the deposed ex minister represents communication between the center (Khartoum) with him symbolizing east Sudan.
Public Prosecution launched legal proceedings against a prominent newspaper and the Bar Assoc, triggering complaints authorities are trying to restrict basic freedoms nearly a year after a coup. Prosecution’s cyber crimes issued an order to block Al-Sudani, one of the country’s most respected dailies…called the Head of the Steering Comm Sudanese Bar Assoc in for questioning, and ordered seizure of its headquarters. The newspaper would fight the order, which could only be issued by the courts: This order goes against the right to free speech and free press guaranteed by the law. Lawyer Al-Haj made a complaint over the Assoc’s financial disclosures: What is happening is an organised attack on freedoms by remnants of the old regime trying to return to power, its headquarters. This order goes against the right to free speech and free press that is guaranteed by the law. The Bar Assoc recently developed a proposal for a new Constitution.
Information Crimes & Digital Investigations Prosecution directed Communications & Postal Regulatory Authority to block the website of El Sudani following a complaint about an information crime. Mukhtar, Editor-in-Chief, told Radio Dabanga the news outlet was not officially informed: The site was suspended without a warning. I was not even summoned concerning the complaint…the competence of arrest belongs to the judiciary and not the prosecution, and stressed they will take necessary measures. The prosecutor, Abdelmunim Hafi, suspended El Sudani and 30 other newspapers in July last year on the pretext of stirring public unrest. The African Center for Justice & Peace Studies lamented the continued repression of journalists.
US Amb Godfrey warned the Sudanese government of repercussions of allowing Russia to build a military base in the Red Sea: There are some reports Russia is trying to implement the agreement it signed with Al-Bashir to establish a military base along the Red Sea. If the government decides to move forward it would be detrimental to the interests of Sudan…such a move will isolate Sudan and undermine the country’s interests…the US can be a good partner, but that will be possible through creation of a new civilian-led government and transitional framework that will take the country back to the path of democracy. Sudan and Russia signed cooperation agreements on military training, experience sharing and entry of warships into ports of the countries, a facility on the Red Sea capable of receiving nuclear-powered warships accommodating 300 military and civilians. Middle East Monitor
September 27
The wave of strikes continues in full force. Traders and merchants went on strike to protest exorbitant tax increases, a new strategy of the government to fill the national treasury. Others went on strike to demand fair salaries and unpaid dues amidst the economic crisis. Many economic experts in the region are not convinced that increasing taxes is a good way to support Sudan’s economy…it will further increase economic hardships. Tax increases will eventually be reflected on the consumer, and
lead to weakening purchasing power and reluctance to consume, economic analyst Hafiz Ismail…Since the coup, exports decreased significantly. Turning to domestic revenue is unrealistic given the current economic and political crisis, Zaynab Mohamed, NKC African Economics…with purchasing power declining and little support for military rule, tax hikes will push Sudan further into political turmoil. 8 months on, we are in a state of stagnation and current protests are linked with other strikes all demanding the increase in salaries to match current inflation.
Merchants in El Damazin, Blue Nile State, organised a comprehensive strike and closed all shops Sun in protest against exorbitant tax increases imposed by the federal Min of Finance on traders…most of the shops responded to the strike. The merchants of El Obeid, El Gedaref and Sennar carried out similar strikes due to huge tax increases of up to 10x more than current rates. A trader from Sennar: The exorbitant taxes will certainly lead to great losses among traders and force many to leave the market permanently. Electricity workers embarked on a renewed partial strike Sun, which was turned into a comprehensive strike yesterday to protest the decision by the Min of Finance to retract a salary structure previously approved. The strike led to power outages in the Republican Palace and ministries. Employees of the Min of Agriculture & Forestry resumed their comprehensive strike Sun after the government failed to respond to demands…allocating 40% of revenues directly to the Min of Agriculture, payment of due allowances, promotions, transport, health insurance and training. Workers in Min Trade & Supply in Khartoum went on strike Sun to demand improvement in work environment and salaries…employees said the strike caused suspension of all office transactions. An employees’ committee in S Kordofan reported the state government should have received sufficient support from the central government to cover the new salary structure. Health & Medical Staff Coordination in El Gedaref threatened a comprehensive strike in the entire state to demand financial dues…payment of unpaid dues for 1 month in 2020, allowances for 4 months of 2021, and Eid El Fitr and Eid El Adha grants. The sit-in in El Sereif Beni Hussein, N Darfur entered its 3rd week as residents reject the governor’s decision to appoint a tribal leader. The protesters demand dismissal of the exec dir and other officials…they want to transfer their sit-in to the secretariat in El Fasher until all demands are fulfilled. Dabanga
118 PROTESTORS KILLED SINCE OCTOBER Health officials urged the need to autopsy 3,000 unidentified bodies piled up at Khartoum mortuaries, stressing the current situation may trigger a pandemic of plague. The growing opposition to burial of the unidentified bodies of protesters killed by security triggered postponement by Public Prosecution. We stick to the autopsy of all unidentified bodies in accordance with the Red Cross protocol and not leave them in this tragic situation, Aqil Swar al-Dahab, Forensic Med Auth Advisory Board…it was inappropriate for a legal body to revoke its decision. The ban on autopsy resulted in accumulation of 3,500 bodies. Security Forces killed hundreds before the collapse of the al-Bashir regime…bloody repression continued before a political agreement in Aug 2019, and resumed after the coup in Oct 2021. The ruling military are accused of being behind efforts to bury victims and clear any evidence about their responsibility in this violence. Mon, Police dispersed hundreds of demonstrators in Omdurman who protested burial of the victims. 2 investigators think 200 bodies of enforced disappearance victims are among the bodies. Many bodies began to decompose due to constant power outages and loading morgues beyond capacity. Pro-democracy groups including families of the missing, Missing Persons Initiative, Doctors Comm and Resistance Comm renewed rejection of burial of thousands of unidentified bodies. Sudan Tribune
Sudan Bar Assoc explained their proposed draft constitution with regards to military reform. They propose limiting military powers much more than stipulated in the 2019 Constitutional Document. Some groups, especially Sudanese Professionals Org, called it an attempt to flee forward to a settlement with the military and opposed plans to hold early elections as long as elements of the former regime are not fully dismantled. It is possible that because of these criticisms SBA clarified its stance on dismantling empowerment and limiting military powers. Lawyer El Badawi said the draft stipulates a single professional army representing the defence of the homeland…integration of RSF and rebel combatants into the army provided the institution will be under civilian command and forces prohibited from carrying out commercial activities. Currently, big parts of Sudan’s economy, especially gold exports, are in the hands of the military or RSF. According to SBA, any reform in the military should happen through a plan drawn up by a civilian government. Lawyer Karrar explained the draft contains clauses to remove empowerment set up during the regime of El Bashir and the past 3 years. Many international embassies and the Trilateral Mechanism considered the document a serious and encouraging initiative and offered support to SBA’s efforts to include a vast array of civilian political parties and forces. SPLM-N El Hilu and Sudanese Professionals Assoc rejected the draft. Dabanga
September 26
Authorities continue to make it difficult for journalists to do their work. ACJPS documented incidents where authorities interfered with media freedom and expression this month, including attacking or judicially harassing journalists. Sept 13, Police Forces distracted 2 journalists from covering Marches of the Millions in Khartoum. Hussein Hennery was obstructed, a tear gas canister thrown at him while he was covering the rally, forcing him to leave. Amira Saleh was held by police in Khartoum with batons. She was later released after the rally ended and no charges were placed. Nugdallah, professional photographer, was charged with Public Noise and disturbance of Public Peace and photography of Military areas. His case was dismissed because of an absence of complaints. The court ordered the officers to return Nugdallah’s cameras confiscated during his arrest. ACJPS documented judicial harassment of Ahmed who was detained, tortured and charged with defamation over a social media post Sept 10. Radio FM 100 banned El Sabag from her radio show 7 days for hosting 3 members of Sudanese Journalists Assoc. ACJPS called for taking advantage of the transitional period to make comprehensive institutional and legislative reforms and raise awareness on international conventions and disseminate the culture of human rights violations and impunity…reform does not mean duplicating policies of the former regime but rather creating a strategic reform process. Despite continued harassment and censorship of journalists, ACJPS celebrated election of 39 new members of SJA’s secretariat…reform of the SJA has been fought for by acting chair Adam, journalist and human rights defender along with other members since 2020. Dabanga
September 23
After 2-week-long workshop organised by UNITAMS, Sudanese women presented a new unified gender-responsive constitutional vision. 40 women in civil society organisations, feminist groups, political parties, rebel movements and universities presented their conclusions to the Trilateral Mechanism and foreign diplomats. The women’s outcome document consists of guiding principles and key clauses to be included in any constitutional document: Recognising the role of women and their meaningful participation in the success of the revolution, we affirm our commitment to the principles of gender equality in all aspects of political, economic, social, cultural, developmental and environmental spheres. The constitutional vision is guided by the principles of human rights, non-discrimination, equal citizenship, rule of law and the link between gender equality and democracy. The document proposes to ensure women’s equal participation in governance, legislative bodies, law enforcement, judiciary and policy-making forums during and after transition. The women proposed specific clauses to ensure national laws are consistent with international standards against gender-based violence including domestic violence, female genital mutilation, human trafficking and child marriage. Other provisions focus on equal right to land ownership, to pass down citizenship and to access justice equitably.
Sudanese Bar Assoc drafted a constitutional framework…received support from a number of pro-democratic political forces. SPLM-N leader El Hilu said the proposed constitution resists radical change, and now Sudanese Professionals Assoc renewed its rejection of the draft constitution too. SPA considers it an attempt to flee forward to a settlement with the military by ensuring impunity and a safe exit…premature and bypasses consensus on a political charter of forces of the revolution referring to charters of Resistance Comm..the draft does not express the will of the people…SPA refuses to hold any elections before dismantling the elements of the former regime. If early elections take place, this will mean demolition of the idea of the transitional period.
Renowned political scientist El Battahani said talk of early elections means legitimising the junta…proposals of the international community about holding general elections is against reality and means repetition of failed experiments. Talking about any constitutional document without taking into account the sharp divisions in society will only lead to new failures…the transition is a complex one, whose chronic crises must be addressed, such as ethnic, tribal, religious, patriarchal and class divisions…the erosion of political life over the past 30 years should be addressed… establishment of a new social contract in which the public is encouraged to participate in the political sphere. Dabanga
During a raid by Police and Security Forces on Abu Saeed neighborhood, Wad El Bashir, Omdurman, Shireen Hasan Abbas, 18, was shot dead in front of her family’s home. Locals say unpunished violent behaviour is normal during police raids. Justice Africa Sudan said the young woman came out of the house looking for her younger brother after hearing loud noises. 30 vehicles raided the neighbourhood and shot around them…plundered the neighbourhood and robbed people of mobile telephones and money. Abbas was killed with a bullet directed to her chest; it reached her heart and she died on the spot. No charges have been filed against anyone. According to residents killing, plundering and robbing people is normal conduct by Police and Security Forces during raids. As no one was held to account in the past, impunity has become the dominant factor. Many in the neighbourhood lost their lives due to such behaviour. The people believe they are targeted because of their ethnic and tribal background. The population of Wad El Bashir consists mostly of displaced people from S Kordofan and Darfur and So Sudanese refugees. These native African groups are often targeted by authorities because of their darker skin. Before swooping the neighbourhood Security Forces raided a makeshift market where alcohol was sold and served in reed huts. Dabanga
Foreign Affairs Comm of European Parliament paid a visit to Sudan where it met with Hemeti Dagalo. The delegation is visiting to discuss the democracy struggle with authorities and civil society. EU gives full and complete support to the demand for democracy and civil rule…willing to support upcoming elections and the Tripartite Mechanism to help facilitate democratic re-transition. The delegation said any delay in agreeing and addressing the political crisis will lead to further deterioration of the economy and humanitarian situation and increase challenges faced by the people. FFC- Central Council met with the delegation…raised the need to stop violence against civilians and support a political process that leads to a political system representing real democratic civilian rule. National Accord Forces, a split-off group and alliance of rebel groups supports the coup, met the delegation…stressed the necessity of forming a civilian government that includes all parties without exclusion (including the military). Dabanga
September 22
EU welcomed the military’s decision to withdraw from politics, stressing that handover of power to civilians should be managed responsibly and without any unilateral moves. Sudan Tribune
September 21
8 Resistance Comm members will be brought to trial on charges of murdering a military intelligence sergeant…coincided with an anti-coup protest in the Palace area where the body was found. Police arrested 9 members of Al-Daim Resistance Comm. Trial would begin Oct 3. July, Police arrested senior leader of Angry Without Borders, Hossam al-Sayyad, accusing him of taking part in the assassination. His family announced al-Sayyad had gone on an open-ended hunger strike to protest his prolonged detention and deteriorating health. The detainees were tortured. Angry Without Borders clash during protests with Sec Forces using stones and returning tear gas bombs. They operate separately from Resistance Comm neighbourhood groups. Sudan Tribune
Burhan spoke with AP on the sidelines of UN Gen Assembly: No one killed protesters in the way that’s being depicted. Protesters clashed with police, and the police dealt with them according to the law to protect public property. He stopped short of giving a date when elections will be held, despite previously saying a vote could be held in July. He said gridlock lies with political groups that need to agree on a date. He brushed aside strains within his government, denying disagreements with Dagalo. Local media reported disputes between the generals. The New Arab
Al-Burhan arrived in NY to participate in Gen Assembly. Sudanese groups in the US addressed a letter to the UN Secy-Gen, US Pres, US Congress, Pres of 77th Session, Pres of Sec Council and heads of international and regional bodies: …Condemn in the strongest terms and concrete actions the military coup and its leaders for obstructing a meaningful transition to full civilian rule and democracy. They called to exert maximum pressure on the ruling military junta through diplomatic and economic measures to force them to hand over power to a full civilian transitional government. The Sudanese Diaspora across the world supported the Dec revolution and the aspiration of the Sudanese people for freedom, peace and justice. The activists plan to protest outside the UN; they will hold another demonstration Sept 24 to express support for the revolution and condemn his visit. The protest aims to express their refusal to the visit of the coup leader and support for restoration of a civilian government. Sudan Tribune
Rising costs of transport, food and basic commodities are putting immense pressure on consumers. Increasing reports of deaths from malnutrition and starvation are confirming a food crisis highlighted by aid organisations. Chamber of Transport & Communications set a new fixed tariff of SDG 25/km for public transport…will lead to increase in transportation tariffs by 50%. Sudanese Teachers’ Comm says the monthly cost of living for a family of 5 is SDG 580,000. Sudan lags behind Arab and African countries in minimum wage. The average teacher’s salary covers 1/3 of monthly needs. Reports of deaths from starvation have been emerging in recent months, highlighting a growing food emergency spreading from rural to urban areas. 12 million people are facing acute hunger…could reach 18 million, double the figure in 2021. Economic and political disorder contributing to high levels of need…conflict, climate shocks and exploitative political economy has long generated hunger. We have no basic services, and children are dying because of malnutrition said Ahmed Adam, 48, E Kassala, which has some of the highest malnutrition. Adam spoke from a health clinic The New Humanitarian visited. The next harvest could be compromised by late planting due to delayed rainfall and surging input costs, while flash floods damaged cropland. Hunger mainly affected rural populations and war victims who relocated to city fringes. But the current economic crunch compounded by the Ukraine war deepened food insecurity in urban areas…in the last C it never faced levels of hunger as widespread, persistent and acute as today, World Peace Fdn. The deeper crisis is that Sudan’s political economy is structured in an unequal and exploitative manner that generates widespread chronic hunger and intermittent humanitarian emergency and famine. Tufts Univ report. CRP-Sudan-PMF-final.pdf (tufts.edu)
Leading researchers argue humanitarian aid won’t solve food insecurity…change requires structural reforms to a political system that has long seen rulers place their survival above rural populations. Sudan’s foreign exchange mostly comes from exports from rural production. Yet the cash funded bread imports for urban dwellers, a more valued constituency for Khartoum than rural sorghum eaters. Military and political elites maintained rule by vicious campaigns in rebellious peripheries…led to starvation crimes and destruction of rural livelihoods. Decades of displacement created a pipeline of landless workers who labour on commercial farms…often don’t have enough money to buy the very food they are producing. Sudan’s political economy is structured in an unequal and exploitative manner that generates widespread chronic hunger. Abdelrahman Mohamed of Khartoum is struggling to get by: Life is impossible with current living conditions, there is a lack of fuel, cooking gas and flour. Hasan Mahmoud, 44-year-old plumber: incomes can’t keep up with rising prices at local markets. Living in dignity for the lower class, even the middle class, is nearly impossible. The New Humanitarian
September 20
Sudan hosts one of the largest refugee populations in Africa with 1.14 million refugees and asylum seekers. The government continues to maintain an open-door policy, with new arrivals fleeing conflict, food insecurity and lack of services. Persistent insecurity in countries of origin contribute to protracted refugee caseloads as safe, voluntary and dignified returns are obstructed. Sudan is hosting 807,532 So Sudanese refugees primarily in White Nile, Khartoum, E Darfur; 131,191 Eritrean refugees in Kassala, Gedaref, Khartoum; 73,448 Ethiopian refugees in Gedaref and Blue Nile. Other groups from Burundi, Chad, CAR, Congo, Yemen, Syria. 38% reside in camps and 62% out-of-camp and urban settings…sustained economic decline continues to affect Sudan, with inflation of the pound 148% in June…Lower than average harvests reduced cereal availability, contributing to rising food prices, exacerbated by conflict in Ukraine as Sudan is largely dependent on Russia and Ukraine for wheat. Rising prices, high inflation and challenges in supply chains greatly reduced household purchasing power, with 11.7 million people at risk of food insecurity. Sudan Tribune
Detainees in Kassala State Prison threatening hunger strike to protest their prolonged detention. Authorities have taken in custody of a number of activists and legal figures from Hausa Tribe against the backdrop of demonstrations to protest the killing of Hausa in Blue Nile region. Families of detainees marched to the prosecution office where they handed over a memorandum calling for release or trial of detainees. The detainees will start a hunger strike because of their arbitrary detention, Osman Babu, relative of a detainee…protesters requested prosecution release them within 48 hours. He warned they would hold protests and sit-ins outside the prosecution’s office and government secretariat. Sudan Tribune
African Centre for Justice & Peace Studies expressed deep concerns over continued violation of human rights by law enforcers in W Darfur. The organisation highlights killings, detentions, illegitimate use of the Emergency Law, and other rights abuses often involving RSF. The detentions and violations targeted displaced people and tribal leaders who oppose RSF. ACJPS documented 177 people detained after tribal conflict in July. 21 youth from Kereinik camps for the displaced were detained and transferred to El Huda Prison without charges since April. An armed attack resulted in 18 deaths in Bir Saliba, W Darfur with unclear level of RSF involvement. Aug 1, Iringa Tribe Prince Sanousi was held and charged with 5 offences after he made statements distancing himself from reconciliation attempts under the auspices of Hemeti. These agreements have been criticised as superficial and not representing the interests of the people. The head of Hemeti’s W Darfur Peace & Tribal Reconciliation Comm is held responsible for grave crimes including crimes against humanity. Sanousi was charged with waging war against the state and disturbance of public peace. Darfur Bar Assoc reported detention of 197 people by RSF in a campaign that targeted tribal leaders who refuse to partake in RSF-led reconciliation efforts, and other activists, teachers, students and farmers. Several people disappeared. RSF in Darfur is highly contentious…widely believed responsible for atrocities in Kordofan and Darfur.
Mass arrest of tribesmen. 25 July joint forces of paramilitary Central Reserve Police, Sudanese Alliance Forces Darfur and RSF detained 177 people of Tama Tribe and Aura Clan and other clans in the area. The detainees are likely to be subjected to 6 months of imprisonment. April 15, 21 youths were transferred to El Huda Prison…in an isolated section with a serious lack of water, spread of mosquitoes, harmful insects and poor food…there are minors and 1 teacher. The detainees are from Kereinik Camp. In Jan, camp leaders reported them to the police claiming they were disturbing the peace. They were accused of selling and abusing drugs. Darfur Bar Assoc accused Gov of W Darfur of enforced disappearance of detainees by holding them months without charges. Aug 4, 18 people from Arab Rizeigat Clan were killed by a Chadian armed group. Dabanga
109 people are illegally detained by RSF in Pt Sudan Prison. Darfur Lawyers Assoc revealed detainees were deported from N and W Darfur. Over the past 3 years, the government arrested tribal members over inter-communal clashes. Some were taken into custody in Khartoum and Pt Sudan, others released. Comm for the Defence of the Detainees of the Two States and Darfur Lawyers Assoc visited the facilities to assess conditions and treatment…Among detainees there’s a high school teacher arrested May in W Darfur. He was tortured and deported with 108 others. The extrajudicial detention included an epilepsy patient and man arrested with 4 of his sons… detainees were subjected to serious human rights violations in military intelligence buildings before being transferred to Pt Sudan by RSF. W Darfur witnessed tribal conflicts that claimed the lives of many…thousands were displaced to El-Geneina, others fled to refugee camps in Chad. SRF fighters in Darfur who are generally from Arab tribes are accused of fighting alongside their tribe. Sudan Tribune
September 19
Min of Finance said the military intends to maintain control over sovereign and security authorities, defence, foreign relations and international cooperation authorities and all authorities during negotiations over the executive government. El Burhan’s statement in July was about withdrawing from dialogue rather than a return to the barracks. The Min predicted failure of the Quad (Saudi Arabia, UAE, US, UK) due to the search for legitimacy in mainstream FFC-CC, which is excluding other parties. FFC-CC reiterated there must be a political process that achieves legitimate aspirations of the people in ending and defeating the putschists, restoring democratic transition, forming civilian constitutional governing institutions, achieving transitional justice, and removing regular forces from the political process which should carry out their duties through democratic governance systems. FFC signed the constitutional document with the military 2019, after which a hybrid Sovereignty Council was formed. Dabanga
The constitution proposal proposed by Sudanese Bar Assoc does not address the roots of the country’s crisis, according to head of SPLM-N El Hilu. The draft constitution deliberately neglects to address the nature of the state in a radical way, using eloquence and cleverness as camouflage. El Hilu said the proposal is a new attempt to resist radical change. He said the military have taken power as a shield against accountability, describing those waiting for the army and RSF to give up all power to civilian government as delusional: the path to peace begins by addressing the roots of the crises, foremost separating religion and state to ensure religion is not exploited in politics and repetition of previous experiences that damaged unity of the peoples and led to secession of So Sudan. Dabanga
Opposition groups are split over a proposed political deal between civilian and military representatives. Resistance Comm are deeply divided over whether to support the deal brokered by US, UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE backed by UNITAMS. They accuse civilian parties led by FFC of secretly dealing with the military to reach a compromise over the transition to civilian-led rule. Now some Resistance Comm members told MEE they should be supporting what is a realistic first step on the road to civilian government. In July with anti-coup protests taking place every week and economy in freefall, Burhan pledged to step aside and make way for factions to agree on a civilian government. Civilian leaders dismissed the speech as a ruse and Resistance Comm maintained their rallying cry of no negotiation, no compromise and no partnership with the military. FFC, supporting international mediation to solve the crisis, denies any intention to compromise with the military insisting they are aiming to bring an end to the coup peacefully. Hemeti, RSF militia, announced that generals agreed to leave the choice of future heads of state and PM to civilian political factions…Hemeti, widely accused of historic war crimes in Darfur and whose RSF has been cracking down on pro-democracy protests, said nothing about when power might be returned to civilians.
While FCC and elements of the opposition accept mediation of the international community and negotiating with the army, the more radical, grassroots revolutionary movement – Resistance Comm, Sudanese Professional Assoc, Communist Party and others – are for the most part rejecting the deal with the army and refusing to coordinate with FCC. Caught between split opposition groups, the lawyers’ syndicate has begun to coordinate with FCC, international legal aid organisations and others to prepare a new constitutional declaration. The last week has seen splits deepen, including within Resistance Committees. Some are seeking to unify the whole opposition including political parties while others are sticking to the current political roadmap. A leading Resistance Comm member from Aldaim: We are aiming for unification of the entire forces that are against the military coup and want full civilian rule in order to achieve the first step of retrieving the transitional path to democracy…We want to achieve the first step together, then we will definitely have different ideas and visions about how to build the country later on. Sami Abdallah, Resistance Comm: there were widespread disputes within Committees…initiatives that received support of FFC and the international community are actually intended to break up the powers that stand for full radical change in the country…this beautiful idea of the united revolutionary centre is tricky because it means that we retreat from our 3 nos slogan…FFC practically sat in talks with the army. These groups which represent FFC – parts of Resistance Comm, reformists and compromisers negotiating their own privileges – they actually want to enter into a kind of power-sharing with the military. The member from Aldaim disagreed: Sticking with these dogmatic ideas under the banner of radicalism will result in loss of the chance of ending the coup. Let us bring back civilian rule first, then we can take deeper steps. FFC: We believe the best way of defeating the coup is to unify the entire civilian forces, as we know the only side that benefits from splits among revolutionary forces is counter-revolution powers. The lawyers’ syndicate, in coordination with FFC, local civil society organisations and international legal aid organisations, participated in preparation of a draft constitution that includes formation of a new structure of civilian rule including council of ministers, legislative assembly and independent commissions, adding it will limit the role of the army in restructuring Armed Forces. UNITAMS warned the political process is in deadlock, contributing to growing insecurity, Sudan has been rocked by escalating tribal violence in remote regions, deterioration of the economic and humanitarian situation.
Jonas Horner, analyst, believes international efforts to solve Sudan’s current crisis are insufficiently robust, badly hampered by fundamental divisions within the counter-coup civilian side. Power sharing with the military remains anathema to large swathes of the street…a second power-sharing arrangement between civilians and the military is likely to find broad-based rejection. The trajectory of international engagement makes it almost certain power will remain vested at the centre, the root cause of myriad conflicts since independence. While Resistance Comm forced FFC to recalibrate their stance to comport more closely with broad-based street-level demands, FFC (and international community) can do more to take political cues from grassroots constituencies…there are few incentives for the military to hand over power to counter-coup civilian forces. Any exit will require Sudanese and international guarantees for the military over their ongoing role in economy and politics and assurances of impunity for abuses during the civil wars and 2018-19 revolution. MEE
September 16
Economist warns of revolution of the hungry. Sidgi Kaballo described inflation figures as disturbing and warned of a revolution of the hungry if the root causes of economic problems are not addressed. He warned of deployment of more Police and Security Forces to contain the situation, linking the increase in poverty to the escalation of petty crimes and violence in the streets…a comprehensive economic plan should be agreed on and the putschists should be overthrown. Inflation rates are still high (above 100%) so prices are doubling monthly. To make sure economic protest remains effective, Kaballo called protesters to raise slogans related to the cost of living…This would help ensure participation of large groups. The economist pointed to increasing numbers of beggars in Khartoum and main cities, warning that hunger of the poorest groups could lead to violence, looting and stealing because of sheer desperation. The deployment of Police and Sec Forces will not address the roots of the situation…priority should be given to establishing an economic programme that addresses the economy and living conditions, after overthrowing the putschists. Dabanga
Junior doctors extended their strike 3 days, whilst civil servants in N Darfur entered their 2nd month of industrial action. Junior Doctors Comm said the 3rd day achieved widespread participation across 32 hospitals in 6 states. The entire staff of El Managil Teaching Hosp staged a silent protest demanding salary increases. The strike by government employees in N Darfur entered 2nd month. Staff confirmed adherence to the strike until demands are fulfilled. Their colleagues in S Kordofan are on strike for 3 weeks. Low wages amidst rising inflation are one of the main problems. The strike by employees of electricity sector across several states was lifted after a week of industrial action. The workers called for a strike after the Min of Energy & Oil failed to meet their demands for 2022 salary structure. It is still unclear whether the demands were met, but it was promised employees will not face consequences for participation in the strike. After exhausting official channels, workers at Sudan Radio & TV announced an open strike until demands are met. They want the current general manager gone, structural legal issues sorted, improved salaries, career advancement. Dabanga
High Comm for Emergencies in Blue Nile State said the number of people who fled fighting in El Roseires reached 66,000. The agricultural season is seriously affected by large displacement waves following intercommunal violence in July and earlier this month. State government announced a food gap, despite humanitarian aid. With growing food insecurity and poverty rates, the damage to the agricultural season due to displacement comes as a blow to the region. Not to mention recent damage to farmland caused by floods. Comm appealed to the UN and international agencies for urgent assistance because large numbers of people have also been affected by heavy rains, on top of those who fled the violence in El Roseires and returning refugees. Dabanga
September 14
Civil society organizations called Office of the High Comm for Human Rights to condemn violations of women’s human rights after a woman has been sentenced to death by stoning for adultery. 53 groups including Sudanese Women’s Union and Strategic Initiative for Women of the Horn of Africa called to prioritize the miserable situation of women’s human rights. They called on UN to stress urgent need for fundamental reform of Sudan’s legal framework. After the revolution, the parties left legal reforms to elected parliament, particularly regarding Islamic laws implemented by the former regime. However, with the coup, courts resumed implementing harsh punishments such as the death penalty by stoning. July 27 a judge sentenced a 20-year woman to death by stoning. The punishment of stoning for adultery has never been implemented but remains a constant threat used to terrorize women and keep survivors silent within a repressive regime that shows no respect for human rights. Immediately release the young woman survivor sentenced to death by stoning, and end her illegal persecution and imprisonment. They hold Sudan accountable for continuing to utilize and legitimize terrorizing punishments and torture against women, such as stoning, amputation, flogging and other degrading punishments. The groups underscored that Sudan contradicts its obligations under international human rights laws…Stoning violates UN Conv Against Torture and Intl Covenant on Civil & Political Rights. Sudan Tribune
UNITAMS Head Perthes said initiatives to end the political stalemate disagree on the role of the military in the transition but considerably agree on remaining issues. Perthes briefed the Sec Council on development during the last 90 days:…There are important differences about institutional division of powers, particularly the role of the military …there is wide-ranging consensus on the need for a civilian head of state, independent PM and cabinet of technocrats. The draft constitutional framework of the Sudanese Bar Assoc means the initiative gathers a broad spectrum of civilian forces around one vision including FFC, relevant parties not included in government like DUP, and Juba Peace Agreement signatories. The lawyers call for a very limited role for the military restricted to defence and security of the country in a council chaired by a civilian. Perthes pointed to the return of elements of the former regime in government institutions. Ibrahim Mudawi, Pres, Sudan Social Development Org, supported IDPs in Darfur, called for integrating signatory groups into the national army instead of roaming amongst civilians. There is a risk of inter-factional fighting that might lead to civil war if security arrangements of the Juba Peace Agreement are not implemented. Sudan Tribune
7 million children are not going to school as worsening crises threaten to disrupt the education of millions more. 1 in 3 school-aged children do not go to school. A further 12 million will have school years heavily interrupted by lack of teachers and infrastructure. Children in impoverished Sudan have for years faced difficulties with access to education, especially in rural areas. Access has been impeded by the exacerbating socio-economic situation, recurring conflicts and school closures during Covid. Once children drop out of school, the chances of girls and boys returning are low…girls are especially vulnerable. Hundreds of teachers staged protests in recent months over low wages. No country can afford to have 1/3 of its school-age children with no basic literacy, numeracy or digital skills. Education is not just a right – it’s a lifeline, UNICEF. The New Arab
September 13
Security Forces used excessive force to prevent anti-coup protesters from reaching the Presidential Palace Tues…arrested dozens of youth demonstrators. The Sept Uprising March was organized by Resistance Committees in commemoration of the Sept 2013 demonstrations Sec Forces met with extreme brutality, killing dozens.
Sudan Tribune reported Security Forces and Police intercepted thousands of demonstrators and violently dispersed them with tear gas and batons. Dozens were arbitrarily arrested, including leading member of NUP al-Mahdi, released on bail and taken to a hospital for treatment as she sustained wounds. Armoured vehicles hunted protesters who fled the violent repression in areas surrounding the Palace. Rana Abdel Ghaffar, Emergency Lawyers Assoc, told Sudan Tribune 45 protesters, including 3 young women had been detained in N Khartoum…all detainees at Khartoum E Police station were subjected to urine and blood tests, despite the illegality of these procedures. The military authorities claim protesters were delinquents who drink alcohol and take drugs before the protests. Sec Forces performed body searches and looted youth’s belongings, and sometimes cut their hair forcibly to humiliate them.
Workers and traders went on strike to protest increased taxes and high fines… unpaid salaries and failure to implement the promised salary structure. Sudan’s economy is in peril, and poverty rates are likely to be even higher. Most Sudanese are struggling to afford their basic needs. Exports decreased significantly leading to a loss of income, Finance Min expects no external support for 2023. Unrest increased now that state governments announced significant tax increases to enhance their income, leading to strikes and protests. Market traders in Sennar went on strike and all shops closed Sun to protest the tenfold increase in taxes…private health institutions, clinics, pharmacies and medical laboratories are part of the action. Mohamed Abu Hereira, Sennar Mkt trader, told Radio Dabanga the increase in taxes seriously affected them: The new tax estimates are arbitrary…The exorbitant taxes will certainly lead to great losses among traders and force many to leave the market permanently.
El Gezira witnessed protests. In Tembol, workers embarked on a strike and traders closed shops at the market to protest tax increase and days-long electricity and water outages. In El Hasaheisa, rickshaw drivers staged a protest in front of the Judicial Auth because of exorbitant fines. El Gedaref Traders Assoc threatened to strike due to exorbitant taxes that exceeded previous estimates by 3x…members unanimously decided to stop working, not to engage in commercial activities and close the market. Sun, junior doctors in all hospitals embarked on a 3-day general strike because salaries had not been paid for 8 months. High Comm for Claiming Workers’ Rights in Red Sea State announced continuation of the strike the 2nd week to demand allowances according to the 2022 salary structure.
Sudan has been witnessing a large number of strikes and protests following authorities’ failure to implement the promised salary structure for civil servants. Despite being more than halfway through the year, many workers are still paid old salaries. In N Sudan, doctors announced escalation of protests following dismissal of the spokesperson for the Steering Comm of Northern State Doctors Assoc by the Min of Health. The medics laid down their tools to demand an improvement in the work environment and payment of financial dues. Instead of implementing these demands, the spokesperson was dismissed. In N Darfur protesters continued to close state offices in El Sereif with a sit-in for the 4th day to protest a new superintendent from Bani Hussein Tribe. The protesters accused authorities of violating an earlier agreement concerning appointment of native administration leaders. Dabanga
Committee for Prisoners & Missing Persons gather more information on those who went missing during battles between armed rebel movements and the military before the 2020 Juba Peace Agreement, officially commenced work and is open to receiving complaints and information from stakeholders. Suleiman Hajjana said the Comm deals with those who went missing or were captured during battles between the government and rebel movements 2002-20. The tasks are to count and classify prisoners and missing persons, investigate facts about their whereabouts, and determine what their fate has been. Dabanga
4 million Sudanese live and work in Egypt. 8 daily flights depart from Khartoum with Sudanese leaving their country for good in search for a better life. Osman Mirghani, El Tayyar, wrote about this migration to the north. Sudanese patients seek treatment in the Egyptian capital. It is better and cheaper than in their home country. Since the coup, people in Sudan, in particular youth, have lost hope of a steady income and fear the future. Married men search for jobs abroad as they cannot support their families with their Sudanese salary because of continuing high inflation. Many students register at Egyptian universities as Sudanese universities are closed on-and-off, and have a lower level. The political crisis completely paralysed the country. Most factories and projects are on the verge of bankruptcy. Even small companies dried up like leaves in the dry season, but the greatest calamity is here is no prospect of getting out of the tunnel. No one knows the consequences of the rushing torrent of the Season of Migration to the North, referring to the famous novel by Tayeb Salih. Migration to Egypt is no longer just an escape from a miserable economic situation, but rather a search for a life that meets the standards of dignity. 2018 Cairo requested an amendment officially restricting the entry of Sudanese to Egypt. Dabanga
September 12
In a report by The Guardian, Zainab Mohamed Salih interviewed families demanding DNA tests to identify relatives missing after 3 years. The families wish to find out if relatives are among more than 3,000 unclaimed bodies in mortuaries. They are demanding the government does DNA tests before it takes any further steps. The Senior Pub Prosecutor announced plans to dig mass graves for unidentified bodies without recording forensic details. Central Comm of Sudan Doctors denounced the decision, calling the move a dangerous deviation from protocols. Tayeb El Abbas, head of Missing Persons Investigation Comm, told The Guardian if the government were to undertake DNA testing it will be for the first time in Sudan they will be burying every missing person in a separate grave…we are hoping if this identification process uses the right procedure we will be able to know [how they died]. Sumia Osman’s 24-year-old son has been missing since June 3, 2019, when RSF carried out a brutal attack on the large sit-in whereby 127 people were killed: They left the bodies [to decompose] to bury the truth. They deliberately did it…. Iman Musa whose brother, El Mukashfi Musa, 28, is missing: We reached a point where we think there is no justice on this planet. Doctors Comm: The revolution since the start continuously witnessed attempts to obscure justice and protect perpetrators of violence and extrajudicial killings…in order to preserve the rights of the unidentified dead to dignity and justice, a number of measures and procedures must be taken. Gusei Hemeto was identified using DNA testing after his body was found in the Nile tied to a block of concrete 3 days after break-up of the sit-in. CCSD: several hospital mortuaries denied bodies were present at the morgues while in fact they were. Dabanga
UK-based REDRESS urged a future legitimate and democratically elected government reform its laws to curtail torture in custodial settings and prohibit use of information extracted by torture in trials…allegations raised by accused persons that they were forced to confess have historically been systematically ignored by judges. Judges routinely tell them the only way to address torture evidence/torture is to initiate separate proceedings against alleged perpetrator and not against the defendant. As a party to UN Conv Against Torture Sudan must prohibit, prevent, punish and provide reparations for torture and ill-treatment…ensure evidence elicited through torture is excluded from legal proceedings. Despite this, authorities continue to rely routinely on evidence obtained through torture in proceedings.
REDRESS refers to the case of 17-year-old Mohamad Adam/Tupac who was detained from a hospital mid-Jan after sustaining injuries in a demonstration on charges of stabbing a police brigadier to death. Fellow protesters Mohamed El Fateh, Ahmed El Fateh and Musab El Sherif were detained. Adam’s defence lawyers said (they) were subjected to torture while held in incommunicado detention by Sec Forces, and their confessions were extracted by torture. In the first session of trial, defence lawyers requested a medical examination to prove the torture. This time the presiding judge granted the request, upheld by Sudan’s High Court. Another case concerning 9 members including minorsof Resistance Comm Burri El Lamab accused of killing a paramilitary of RSF during the June 3 massacre, confessions were extracted through torture. Though these cases are consistent with a long history of the use of torture for the purpose of extracting confessions by Security Forces, and highlight the significant work needed to ensure the absolute prohibition of torture and ill-treatment. African Center for Justice & Peace Studies reported a young human rights defender arrested, tortured and charged with defamation over a Facebook post. He was held in Zalengei and tortured and racially berated by police before being released on bail. A Sudanese psychiatrist told Dabanga the number victims of maltreatment and torture by authorities is rapidly increasing.
September 11
Sudanese Diaspora in the US vowed to protest against participation of the head of the Sovereign Council in meetings of the UN Gen Assembly. Gen al-Burhan is expected to participate in 77th UN Gen Assembly Sept 13-27…official sources confirmed al-Burhan’s participation despite the coup and unlawful killing and bloody repression against peaceful protesters. VP of the Sudanese community in Washington, Khalil Ibrahim, revealed they filed a petition to the US admin and Congress to deny entry visa for al-Burhan due to the overthrow of a legitimate civilian government and grave violations of human rights against peaceful protesters. Sudanese journalist in the US, Salah Shuaib, confirmed activists are prepared to protest against al-Burhan’s upcoming visit. Sudanese political and civil society groups as well as US human rights organizations are preparing to demonstrate at the UN and Sudanese Mission as well as the residence of Burhan to express rejection of his visit. Sudanese in the US want to voice their anger at the military coup and take advantage of this occasion to remind the international community of its moral obligations to restore civilian rule and protect the Dec revolution. Al-Burhan is expected to explain his coup against the internally supported civilian government. Cameron Hudson, Africa Program at CSIS, stated al-Burhan’s participation at Gen Assembly would represent an international recognition that the army is the sole authority in Sudan: Interesting the AU suspended Sudan but the coup leader is welcome on an even bigger stage. UN Sec Council will discuss a report by Guterres on the political situation 11 months after the coup. Guterres already called al-Burhan to hand over power to civilians. Sudan Tribune
A 22-year-old man named Seifeldin Adam Ahmed was arrested, tortured and charged with defamation over a Facebook post. Ahmed was arrested in front of Zalingei Univ by detectives and taken to the Police Station…he was beaten by officers who used the butt of their guns and stamped on him with heavy boots. He was moved to a newly built government building where he was tortured and racially berated. Ahmed was charged with defamation due to his post about Christians arrested and charged with apostasy following a police raid into their church. Ahmed was threatened over his large following on Facebook. The detective told Ahmed his popularity would cost him. Dabanga
Central Bank of Sudan report on foreign trade: gold still remains the largest export commodity. Sudan saw its trade deficit lessen from last year’s $4.7 to this year’s $1.5b. Economics Dr. Hasan Bashir, highlighted the continued smuggling of large quantities of gold from the country. Dabanga
UN Secy Gen submitted a detailed report into Sudan’s political, economic and security situation. Guterres’ damning report paid particular attention to deterioration in human rights…the number of people killed during demonstrations since Oct stands at 117, including 20 children and 1 woman. Food insecurity in Darfur, Khartoum, Kassala and White Nile accounted for the highest caseload of people affected by acute hunger, almost ¼ of the population. The economic situation…protracted political crisis and widespread insecurity are likely to continue to constrain economic activity and deter investors… shortages of fuel and commodities were severely affecting livelihoods. Intercommunal clashes and burgeoning security deficit was a primary point of contention. The prevailing lawlessness posed significant challenge for the UN…such as intercommunal conflict 6-11 June in W Darfur, Kulbus, where at least 165 were killed and estimated 50,000 displaced. Dabanga
September 10
Lawyers handed over transitional constitutional proposals to the Tripartite Mechanism. Political, civil society, women and tribal groups made propositions to end the political vacuum after the ouster of the civilian government formed by FFC based on a constitutional declaration. The Mechanism met with the Bar Assoc Steering Comm, received their proposal on constitutional arrangements to guide the transition to democratic rule. The delegation was received by UNITAMS Head Perthes, IGAD Envoy for Peace Wais, and AU Rep Belaiche. The FFC-backed draft constitutional for democratic transition provides for formation of a civilian cabinet and national security council including the military but led by a civilian. Sudan Tribune
September 9
Sudanese-Australian activist Nazik Osman called for a senior Sudanese government Min to be banned from Australia after he threatened her during a visit to Perth for a mining conference. Minerals Min Abunammu was recorded making the threat Sept 1 after being confronted by Osman broadcasting the encounter live on Facebook. The video shows her approaching the delegation denouncing the criminal regime. She shouts al-Burhan should be taken to ICC and calls the Min corrupt and a criminal. Abunammu responds: If you weren’t here, we would beat you until you begged us to stop. Osman had been protesting exploitation of Sudanese gold and minerals:…We know these deals to buy weapons and bullets to kill the Sudanese people…It doesn’t go to improve people’s lives or to build the country, it goes to the militias. I see…a violation of the sovereignty of my country when a foreign official
comes and threatens me as a citizen. He shouldn’t be allowed to come to Australia…if he’s not respecting the citizens, and not respecting the values of this country, he shouldn’t be allowed to enter. Before fleeing Sudan with her family in 2001, Osman was a lawyer and activist supporting women’s rights and advocating on behalf of victims of domestic violence. Her family experienced routine police raids on their home, imprisonment, torture and family separation, and her husband was captured and tortured by authorities before he escaped. They still receive threats in Australia because of their activism, despite not visiting Sudan since they left…the Min’s threat re-traumatised her: I come here to this country to feel safe, to feel my rights to protest are protected. Amnesty Intl Australia had written to Australian Fed Police impressing upon them the gravity of the situation. Osman’s husband was at one point designated an international prisoner of conscience while being held by the government in Sudan. Osman had never before spoken publicly about her experiences but couldn’t stay quiet anymore: I just do not want to see this happening again, to any Australian citizens from any other backgrounds protesting in their country. ABC News
Reports of hunger deaths in displacement camps and cities have been trickling out of Sudan in recent months, highlighting a growing food emergency exceeding response capacity of humanitarian groups. Livelihoods have been eroded and farms damaged as hundreds of thousands of people fled their homes notably W Darfur and S Blue Nile. Lengthy dry spells and pest and disease outbreaks reduced harvests. Cereal production 2021/22 season was 35% lower than the previous period. Kassala has long had poor social indicators – children are facing the threat of death due to severe malnutrition. Rasha Ali, UNICEF: The lack of food because of drought and very high prices is the main problem. 31-year-old Aisha Ibrahim recently lost 2 newborn children to hunger-related deaths: All this suffering is because of malnutrition. 55-year-old Mariam Ahmed said her daughter was suffering from anaemia and her grandson from weak bones and stunting, a growth and development condition caused by malnutrition. 12% [of children] are suffering because of malnutrition, 1 in 3 are suffering from stunting. WFP halved rations for refugees, among the most vulnerable. Ahmed said her immediate concern was doctors help her stunted grandchild become a normal and healthy boy able to play with other children…He is very short and cannot walk well, which means he cannot play with other children his age…This is very painful for me and for our family. The New Humanitarian
Resistance Comm in Khartoum agreed on tight cooperation between them and other democratic forces in order to reverse the military coup and start building democratic Sudan. 9 teams from Khartoum, Omdurman and Khartoum N. The step comes in response to calls for a broad national front in order to develop peaceful struggle quantitatively and qualitatively by establishing a coordinating framework. They deplored fragmentation among anti-coup forces with which putschists continue their destructive politics. They agreed on an urgent workshop to find a working formula for joint coordination, and set up transparent and clear dialogue between Resistance Comm and political, professional, revolutionary forces to reverse the coup. Coordinating teams in S Khartoum and El Jereif denounced the initiative, that the move nullified the Charter for the Establishment of the People’s Authority issued by Khartoum. The step was widely welcomed by 22 professional associations: Central Comm of Sudanese Doctors, Sudanese Teachers Comm and Sudanese Bar Assoc…they called on Resistance Comm, professionals and workers to respond in order to bring down the coup, return to the democratic path, not give in to obstacles and difficulties that prevent consensus. Resistance Comm R Nile and White Nile States welcomed the initiative to combine forces. Atbara Resistance Comm: unity of the power of the revolution is the main entrance to overthrow the coup, lauded Khartoum for realistic and political considerations. El Degeir, Sudanese Congress Party, called the initiative a step in the right direction: a broad national front is the only way to achieve victory over the putschists. Dabanga
Intl Inst for Democracy & Electoral Assistance analysed draft Charters of Resistance Committees, what differences must be reconciled to present a united vision in negotiations with the military, and what structural features may pose a challenge to the transitional period. The Charters share creation of a new political system that promotes rule of law and disassembles the system of elite control; combat state corruption and dismantle empowerment; strengthen local governments to promote link between citizens and government and empower greater responsibilities such as land distribution; permanent constitution and legal framework for transitional justice, reform and restructure the judicial authority; legal protections for unions and civil society; comprehensive peace agreement unify the national army, hold security apparatus accountable, restructure the security state; national economic plan that promotes equitable economic development and action to protect the environment.
According to the researchers, the Committees are proposing a fairly identical transitional system for a peace agreement with armed groups, although too broad as to structure, powers and relationship between bodies and details. While the Charters agree on broad objectives, objectives remain sweeping and broad…too vague to be implementable on their own, too ambitious to be completed during a transitional period. There were concerns about lack of clear mechanisms to avoid spoilers out of excluded political coalitions and armed groups; problems around accountability of Legislative Council members. Neither Charter gives powers to the government to dismiss or hold members to account or oversight. They agree broadly on the order of the transitional process, but differ on length.
Resistance Comm emerged as watch dogs making sure other opposition organisations would not compromise the ideals of the Dec revolution. They are advocating transcending old tribal, ethnic and regional affiliations, and their horizontal structure reflects their desire to maintain autonomy and independence. The Committees are the only force trusted by families of martyrs and the general public because they do not represent old powers or corrupt movements. They have potential and capacity to turn the youth movement into something bigger – lift it from a narrow local platform to national platform to support democratic transition, but need to unify and avoid disagreements. Resistance Comm face co-optation. Their power is targeted by main competing political forces. Military and political parties left, centre and right, are trying to work their way into Committees. Dabanga
Environmentalists Stop army Tanker. Young members of the 6-Party Comm for Protection of the Environment in Sawadra, N Sudan, prevented a water tanker to reach a plant of Intl Mining Co. Authorities are trying to restart the facility that processes mining waste containing substances harmful to the environment. The residents categorically reject the gold cyanidation plant. People have been protesting the use of cyanide and mercury in gold mining for years. 2017, they blocked the highway between Dongola and Halfa demanding removal of the plant. Local authorities ignored a court order to suspend operation; 3 years later, the Comm planned new protests after the state gov refused to implement the decision of the Min of Energy to gradually close the mines. Protests took place in gold mining areas in R Nile State, N Darfur, N Kordofan and S Kordofan, where highly toxic substances were even sold in markets. Mercury, causing damage to the nervous system at relatively low levels of exposure, contaminate the atmosphere and water at a very long distance. Cyanide prevents cells of the body from using oxygen, spread via water, soil, air. 2015 Dabanga reported mass death of fish in Lake Nasser which sparked fears mercury and cyanide leaked into the lake. A year earlier, northern Sudanese complained about an unusual high rate of cancer cases. 2018, Health Min of S Kordofan investigated the increase in miscarriages, birth of deformed children, and kidney failure. Half a year later, environmentalists in S Kordofan reported deaths of many birds and livestock following resumption of mining. Following mass protests in S Kordofan and elsewhere, the Council of Min outlawed toxic substances in mining operations. It is not clear if the policy has been complied with.
September 8 Khartoum Resistance Comm, spearhead of anti-coup protests, are divided over the process to restore a civilian transitional government. Several coordination committees close to Sudanese Communist Party blamed FCC for complacency with the military and accused them of seeking to re-establish this partnership. Resistance Comm of S Khartoum reiterated rejection of FFC proposals for talks with the military to dismantle the coup, emphasized their adherence to the 3 nos: No negotiations, No partnership, No legitimacy. Coordination committees favourable to the political process: Central Khartoum, W Khartoum, S Khartoum, Old Omdurman E Nile, many others in Khartoum State. Khartoum Resistance Comm stressed the need for tight coordination between Resistance Comm and political, professional and social forces that believe in democratic transition and overthrow of the coup. FFC and SPLM-N Revolutionary Democratic Current welcomed the call for effective coordination. The shift in positions of Resistance Comm towards FFC enhances the position of the coalition in any political process, as they had been described as isolated. Ahmed Ismat, S Khartoum Resistance Comm, vowed they would continue to organize protests against the coup until the revolution slogan is fulfilled…reaffirmed rejection of dialogue with the military, that this process aims to safeguard the interest of political elite which will eventually reproduce the same crisis: current negotiations are an attempt to exclude the people from participating in the political scene. Sudan Tribune
Participants from riparian countries stressed need for strong cooperation among Nile Basin countries with regard to equitable and reasonable use of Nile water resource. The call was made during a high-level conference among Nile basin countries in Addis Ababa that brought together scholars in hydropower, researchers, water resource management, former government officials. Representatives reaffirmed need for stronger cooperation and to expedite ratification of Nile R Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement. Engineer Asfaw, GERD Technical Negotiating Team, Advisor on Transboundary Waters, briefed participants about the stage-based filling of the dam, and cooperation benefits of the massive dam; 4 key benefits between basin countries: energy generation for the region, regional power market, water storage and conservation, national capacity. Mohamoud Zainelabdin from Sudan stated the importance of understanding between basin countries and expediting ratification of CFA by all basin countries for mutual benefit. Osman Hamad Eltom, former Irrigation Min of Sudan, presented a wide range among regional basin countries…a list of win-win cooperation between Sudan and Ethiopia including culture, border trade, ongoing ministerial cooperation, climate challenges that can be of mutual partnership. Prof Yilma Sileshi, Addis Ababa Univ, elucidated cooperation based on a comprehensive water treaty. NBI is a regional intergovernmental partnership of 10 countries. Reps visited the dam a few weeks after Ethiopia completed the 3rd filling of the controversial mega-dam near the Sudanese border. The massive $5b dam, Africa’s largest hydroelectric scheme, has been at the centre of dispute. Egypt and Sudan view the project as a threat to their water supply because of their dependence on Nile waters. Sudan Tribune
Perthes, UNITAMS, said the country is on the verge of economic and security collapse…urged all forces to sit with each other in dialogue to save the country. He described the mission’s relationship with the military as normal as they represent the only authority in the country after the coup. The power is in their hands and they are the ones who decide on the next political, social and economic steps…We are not happy with withdrawal of the military from the dialogue with civilian groups. The mission’s mandate, stipulated by the UN Sec Council, is supporting political transition towards democracy under civilian leadership. He confirmed support for elections after the transitional period agreed upon by Sudanese. Perthes deplored the delay in implementation of the Juba Peace Agreement. As for return of the displaced to their places of origin, pointed to the necessity to address ownership of land and hawakeer land traditionally used by a particular tribal group, integration, demobilisation and disarmament of armed forces: Despite ceasefire committees, joint forces for peacekeeping and protection of civilians has not been deployed where they are needed most. Perthes deplored the increase in violent tribal conflicts and attributed this to…politicisation of conflicts over land. The absence of the state’s role in security, social peace, health and education has caused people to resort to their tribes and clans for protection, which has increased intercommunal tensions. Dabanga
Steering Comm of Sudan Bar Assoc will hold meetings with groups that participated in drafting new version of the transitional constitution…received the latest version from the Committee of Experts. A copy was presented to pro-democratic political forces, who proposed amendments and approved the final version. These groups include Resistance Comm, SPLM-N El Hilu, FFC-CC, and smaller revolutionary forces. The text stipulates tasks and structures for the transitional period including the nature of the state, supremacy of the constitution and the law, bill of rights, separation of powers, independence of the judiciary, removal of the empowerment legacy from the regime of al Bashir. Dabanga
September 7
Gibril Ibrahim, NCF, revealed withdrawal of UAE from the Quad. He did not elaborate on reasons that led to withdrawal of UAE, perceived as a supporter of the military. UAE’s economic ambitions have been rejected by political groups, such as building a terminal on the Red Sea or agricultural schemas in E Sudan. The Gulf country is not welcomed by Sudanese Islamist groups that aspire to participate in the transitional process. The Emirates, where live former PM Hamdok and influential Sudanese businessmen, are seen as planning to play a role in the political future of the country. NCF supported the coup…at odds with FFC on participation of the military in the transition. They are accused of being in cahoots to obstruct UNITAMS, which called for credible intra-Sudanese dialogue leading to a transitional government. Sudan Tribune
Employees in the electricity sector announced a 2-day strike across several states after Min of Energy & Oil failed to meet demands for the 2022 salary structure. The states include Khartoum, Red Sea State, N Kordofan, S Kordofan and Northern State. The unrest began after a large group of employees of the Min in Khartoum began a sit-in demanding implementation of the new salary structure. Comm for Electricity Workers Salary Structure said the Min agreed to look at their demands…described the Min’s words as procrastination and without intent to fulfill any demands. Security Forces were called, although no violence or clashes were reported. The safety of electrical appliances is a concern. A worker in Pt Sudan died from electric shock while attempting to repair a fault in a main system. Failing electricity sector blackouts are frequent, with many rural areas completely without electricity. In frequently occurring fuel shortages, people suffer from daily hours-long power cuts.
El Burhan asked UK to provide an official apology for crimes committed during the British colonial era. He denied rumours the army and RSF will take up arms against each other. El Burhan described British actions as a crime against humanity that should be accounted for. The Battle of Karari, 1898. Al Bashir called for Britain and western countries to apologise for massacres and return what had been stolen.
September 6
US, UK, Saudi Arabia and UAE resumed consultations to organize a new meeting for Sudanese stakeholders after failure of a first attempt. The Quad mechanism contacted all parties to discuss how to end the political crisis…proposed every party be represented by 2 people. One of FFC’s leading members, Shihab al-Tayeb, said they intend to discuss the choice of the new PM once they finalized the constitutional declaration. They will submit the text governing the transitional period within days. He reiterated FFC demand to form a fully civilian government, described al-Burhan’s call for a supreme military body with economic and foreign policy powers a miserable attempt to manoeuvre, and the military government is working to put forward initiatives through its agents and we do not believe they have a serious will to resolve the crisis. Sudan Tribune
FFC-CC withdrew from an informal meeting called by US, Britain, Saudi Arabia and UAE after noticing members of Natl Accord Forces dominated by Darfur rebel movements. The military did not send a delegation. FFC-CC has been criticised for willingness to enter dialogue with the military junta responsible for the coup. Dabanga
Al Burhan warned political forces against attempting to drive a wedge between the army and RSF: We tell those who try to ignite discord between the army and RSF that forces will not direct their arms against each other. Al-Burhan’s strongly worded message to political forces opposed to his coup comes as diplomats from US, UK, Saudi Arabia and UAE struggle to bring military and allied armed groups to agree with political forces on reinstatement of civilian government. Arman, SPLM Revolutionary Democratic Current, spoke about the need for the army and RSF to form a new national army that will integrate former rebel groups, one of the issues that triggered a rift between the military and FFC. Al-Burhan: No one will dismantle the military establishment, which will remain cohesive and strong. Security reforms are part of the constitutional declaration and Juba Peace Agreement, but represents a redline for al-Burhan. Sudan Tribune
Humanitarian Aid Commission allowed re-registration of 23 NGOs suspended by the Empowerment Removal Committee. The Comm, affiliated with JEM headed by Ibrahim, backed the coup. Democrat Sudan: This is part of dozens of decisions by coup authorities to cancel decisions of the ERC related to funds, assets and institutions recovered for the benefit of the state. ERC member: the organisations represent hidden facades of dissolved NCP of Al Bashir and the Islamic Movement.* Some administratively violated humanitarian aid law…many consisted of banners, stamps and bank accounts without a board or executive offices. The most dangerous thing was that they were mobilising the poor and needy for the party’s forums. More organisations set up during the era of Al Bashir will be allowed to operate including those…having links with terrorist organisations and financing…HAC know these organisations are hidden fronts for NCP. NCP was estimated to have SDG 1.5 trillion in banks; some assets disappeared under mysterious circumstances. ERC, established by Hamdok to purge remnants of the regime, was suspended following the coup; prominent ERC members were detained. Dabanga *Media is quoted as it appears, descriptions like Islamist are not necessarily accurate and can be used as a slur.
September 4
Land, hostility, gold rush. Renewed intercommunal fighting broke out in Blue Nile State despite a curfew. 21 people were killed. Blue Nile State Security Comm sent forces to all areas to separate the parties, explained the reasons for the violence were not yet known. El Roseires Resistance Comm described the violence as a manifestation of hostility between 2 factions of SPLM-N that split in 2017 following a leadership rift. Kholood Khair viewed the violence from a different angle: This is a gold rush and building of war chests by emerging ethnic blocs of Burhan and the Centre vs Hemedti and the Periphery, giving a radically militarised trajectory to Sudan’s political future. Hausa in Sudan are part of Hausa ethnic group which is very influential in West Africa politically and culturally. Traveling and trading for centuries, some migrated east to places like Sudan where black Africans are still seen by many as outsiders. Dabanga
September 2
Renewed tribal clashes in Blue Nile State have killed 7 people despite a ceasefire agreement. Fighting in the region last month pitted Hausa tribes against rival communities including Berta people, leaving 105 people killed. The clashes erupted after Hausa tribes requested creation of a civil authority which rival groups saw as a means to gain access to land. Protests called for unity and an end to tribalism in the impoverished nation. A Sudanese political analyst told MEE fighting could be attributed to many political and social causes, adding that hate speech is being widely used to whip up conflict: The Juba Peace Agreement doesn’t address the root causes in the State,
war zones in Sudan, but associates of the old regime are fuelling this conflict, as they appear to be in other areas. Unless the sides, especially the military, stop using native and tribal leaders for campaigns to confront pro-democracy protesters, tribal leaders will continue competition and clashes will spread from one place to another. This is actually a new kind of xenophobic clash between African tribes in the region…Tribal leaders are using traditional land ownership disputes to put people on their side. The elites, including politicians and tribal leaders, are behind this violence. Without comprehensive political change these meaningless mass deaths won’t stop.
Tribal violence following weeks of major clashes in Blue Nile State. Funj-Hausa tensions boiled over following accusations from the Funj, who long inhabited Blue Nile State, that Hausa, who inhabit farming areas across the country, were trying to claim parts of their land. There has been sporadic violence in eastern coastal regions and western Darfur despite a nationwide peace deal signed by some rebel groups in 2020. Protesters accused military rulers of failing to protect civilians and stoking tribal conflict. Reuters
September 1, 2022
John Godfrey, first US Amb to Sudan for 26 years, presented his credentials to al-Burhan: I look forward to strengthening the US relationship with the Sudanese people, supporting their desire to advance democratic transition under civilian leadership…It is time to establish a credible civilian government. This step is necessary to resume international partnerships and strengthen relations between the Sudanese government and the US. Political efforts to break the stalemate have been complicated by the bloody repression of anti-coup protests and reinstatement of Islamist* cadres in security and civil services. Sudan Tribune * Media is quoted as it appears, descriptions like Islamist are not necessarily accurate and can be used as a slur.
Central Comm of Sudanese Doctors announced a male protestor was killed during Wed’s demonstrations, after having been hit in the head by a tear gas cannister and then ran over by a military vehicle: This brings the total number of our martyrs after the coup to 117. The demonstrator, who hasn’t been identified, was reportedly ran over along Africa Rd/Airport Rd, epicentre of processions which commemorated International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances Aug 30. Authorities fired tear gas heavily into crowds, while protesters responded by blocking main roads using barricades. Dabanga
August 31, 2022
Disagreements have led to postponement of the Sudanese Initiative for Constitutional Arrangements. Some coalitions and political groups plan to launch a new initiative including the military component and a constitutional declaration. The leak confused some members, while others distanced themselves as it involves supporters of the former regime and participation of the military. Some participants said it is launched by political forces that encouraged Hamdok to sign a political agreement with the military without FFC before their removal from the broad coalition in 2021. The parties plan to hand over their initiative to the Tripartite Mechanism, which will combine the initiatives in a draft constitutional declaration to be discussed by stakeholders.
PCP Political Secy Omer told Sudan Tribune they will not participate in the initiative for the constitutional declaration…participation of army leaders in any constitutional arrangements or sharing power with them means a repetition of the political crisis: Most of the proposed initiatives seek to prolong the transition period, enable the army to gain power and satisfy the international community. FFC Spokesman Saleh said the Initiative is a façade for the military, while the political crisis could not be resolved without establishment of full civil authority: army commander-in-chief and supporters of the former regime stand behind many initiatives proposed to settle the stalemate. He regretted that initiatives seek to legitimate military rule, while FFC groups and the masses seek to bring it down.
Torrential rains usually fall in the country June-Oct causing severe flooding every year, wrecking properties, infrastructure and crops. This year’s flooding left scores of people dead and thousands homeless as seasonal torrential rain engulfs large parts of the country. Among the areas worst affected are the internally displaced persons camps in Darfur where people received no help. Opposition groups and Resistance Comm heavily criticised military leadership for its response to the crisis…it failed to prepare for the rainy season, done little to tackle the aftermath, neglected citizens, and should have declared the whole of Sudan an emergency area. With river levels continuing to rise, there are fears Khartoum could be the next to face disaster. The floods affected at least 500 health facilities, 1,000 water sources and 2,500 latrines damaged or destroyed. Abdul-Rahim, National Council for Civil Defence, told MEE: As the rain and floods may hit the capital in upcoming days, we can’t deliver all that is needed sometimes. Abdul-Rahim said water levels along the Nile and Atbara rivers were still increasing as the peak of the rainy season approached. …water levels at stations in Khartoum and Atbara were recorded at 16.75m and 15.88m, exceeding risk levels. In 2020, flood water swelled the Blue Nile which joins the White Nile in Khartoum, to its highest level since records began over a century ago.
Military leadership and the opposition traded accusations over responsibility for the disaster and response. FFC, Sudanese Prof Assoc and civil society organisations accused the government of failing to prepare for the autumn season. SPA said the effects of the floods was just one example of many, including the economy, of how the military failed to act since Oct: We are not surprised the current regime which killed pro-democracy protesters in the streets because of their demands for civilian rule, will ignore saving them from dying because of the rainy season and health and environmental impacts. Resistance Comm in different parts of the country called for mobilisation to help people in the absence of government help. In response, coup leader al-Burhan accused the opposition of a power struggle at the expense of the people.
Central Comm of Sudan Doctors denounced decision of Public Prosecutor to bury unidentified bodies in mortuaries without recording forensic details: the AG directed the burial of unidentified bodies piled up in mortuaries…Considering the human rights violations of coup authorities and the judiciary’s interaction with victims of the revolution and its martyrs, we read this as an attempt to bury irrefutable evidence of systematic killing by armed forces and a destruction of justice. Each body should have a separate file containing Form 8 or official death certificate, who delivered the body, who received it at the mortuary, staff member who received the body, time and date of receipt, forensic evidence such as photos and description of general and distinguishing marks, fingerprints, DNA sample and morphological pictures of teeth. Only in this way, the rights and dignity of all unidentified persons can be preserved, in compliance with all religious and humanitarian norms and teachings, respecting human rights and international humanitarian law related to the rights of unidentified bodies. During protest actions, but also during house searches, activists and protesters are often taken to unknown places. Many were found by relatives or lawyers in detention cells, others had to be reported missing following the brutal attack on the large sit-ini n front of army Command June 3, 2019, whereby 127 people were killed. In Aug, Radio Dabanga reported more than 100 still missing. CCSD accused hospital mortuaries
of providing misleading information to families. Staff denied bodies were present while in fact they were. During the civilian-led transitional government, the Pub Prosecutor set up a Missing Persons Investigation Comm to investigate following discovery of a mass grave in Khartoum. It was said the mass grave contained bodies of people missing following the Massacre. Dir of the mortuary of Omdurman Teaching Hosp was held and charged with submitting false statements and covering up offences. The Comm visited the mortuary of Wad Madani Teaching Hosp, El Gezira, where 168 unidentified bodies were found.
Sudanese Bar Assoc will announce its version of proposed transitional constitution. A new coalition of pro-military groups is in the making. Resistance Committees are working to create a large coalition to reach democratic civilian rule. FFC-Central Council and representatives of the military including Dagalo held a meeting…strongly rejected by Resistance Comm and pro-democracy groups categorically reject any participation of the military in the government, calling for a genuine civilian government instead of a civilian-led government. SBA stated it is important to solve the crisis, noting the absence of the rule of law, polarisation between political groups, deteriorating economy, dire living conditions. A group of political parties, former rebel leaders and FFC-CC dissidents have been working on a new coalition that gives the army broad powers. El Burhan allegedly supports this coalition which will enable him to remain in power and work with a collaborative PM. Sudan People’s Call was launched last month by Sufi leader El Jad recommending the High Council of Armed Forces proposed by El Burhan be given supreme authority. Popular Congress Party declined the invitation to join. The oldest political parties, NUP and Democratic Unionist Party, agreed on dialogue to end the crisis and restore civil transition. Mohamed Taha, Univ of El Gezira, told Radio Dabanga: various initiatives of the revolutionary movement succeeded in unifying their visions. The pro-democracy Resistance Comm active on grassroots level which reject any cooperation with the military are working to create a large coalition to reach civilian rule. The success of Resistance Comm in integrating their covenants into one charter that establishes full power to the people could constitute an important link in the alliance.
Flash floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains killed 100 people since the start of the rainy season in May. 258,000 people have been affected by floods in 15 provinces. The downpours wrecked many villages and left tens of thousands of acres flooded. Authorities declared a state of emergency in 6 hard-hit provinces: W Darfur, White Nile, W Kordofan and S Kordofan. 27,600 houses were completely destroyed and 42,000 partly damaged. Arab News
August 30
Some political forces, armed movements and dissidents of FFC announce a new political coalition giving the army broad powers in transitional government. The groups are Unionist Democratic Party, Sudanese Baath Party, Republican Party faction of al-Safi, Unionist Party, National Consensus Forces, Umma Party al-Fadil, Sudan People’s Initiative. Popular Congress Partt declined, reaffirming they would not be a party to any alliance backed by the military and al-Burhan. All indications lead to understanding that he clings to the army’s participation in the transition. There are fears this might lead to a rift between al-Burhan and Daglo who reiterated commitment of the military to withdraw from the transitional government. Al-Burhan reassured US and Saudi officials he would not obstruct efforts to form a civilian government. Sudan Tribune
Sudan’s opposition witnessed calls and initiatives to overcome divisions and form a united front against the military junta. Resistance Comm are working on unifying 2 Charters, but FFC-CC refused to merge theirs. Opposition forces repeatedly called for unity in past months to overthrow the military and create more peace and stability amidst a political landscape that continues to be divided. The joint technical committee for unification of the Charters of Resistance Committees called on the people to stand united around the democratic unity of Resistance Comm and their political charters, and participate in making the present and future Sudan. They appealed to the people to raise their visions on charters issued by Wad Madani and Khartoum to produce a unified charter that expresses the aspirations and desires of our people for freedom, peace and a decent life. Both Charters call for civilian-led democratic governance and prioritise social justice. There has been a proposal to unify all charters opposing the military. FFC-CC published their political charter…reject proposal to merge initiatives into a single initiative to end the crisis and constitutional vacuum. El Bereir explained his group considers unifying various initiatives unproductive and will not lead to a radical solution to the crisis.
United Sudanese Revolutionary Forces Abroad announced support for a unified Charter of Resistance Comm: all revolutionary organisations affiliated with the centre declare full solidarity and support for a unified charter to establish the authority of the people for the first time. The group appealed to all Sudanese people and revolutionary forces to support the charter and its democratic demands.
Khaled Omar Yousef, former Min of Cabinet Affairs in the transitional government, stressed the importance for unified opposition: authorities are portraying Sudan’s political crisis as a dispute between civil [revolutionary] forces…but this is fundamentally untrue. The causes of the crisis are the coup and forces who insist on clinging to power even if this leads to fragmentation of the country…this can only be ended by unifying forces of the revolution itself…the nature of the conflict is between 2 camps, the camp of the coup and the camp opposed to it…authorities, including remnants of the regime of Al Bashir, are behind initiatives confusing the scene with initiatives that aim to produce a formal civilian government in which the army maintains control from behind a curtain. One is Sudan People’s Call initiative which called for the army to assume political power…involved dignitaries of the former regime from banned NCP and allied groups. All of them hailed the coup and expressed support for the military they perceive as their saviours. National Movement Forces chaired by Sese is well acquainted with El Jad, Sudan People’s Call initiative.
12 political and activist groups including Communist Party, Sudanese Professionals Assoc and Sudanese Women’s Union formed the Alliance of Forces for Radical Change. This alliance does not include FCC…a result of their sympathy towards a power-sharing government with the military. Activists criticised FFC concerning failed plans to establish a Legislative Council in 2020 with regard to quotas for Resistance Comm. FFC-CC stressed it stands with democratic transition and overthrow of the coup and will not accept any initiative that keeps the putschists in power. FFC split into FFC-CC and FFC-National Accord, National Accord Forces, dominated by rebel groups that signed the Juba Peace Agreement and support the coup; Democratic Unionist Party is an ally, presided by Ardol who became Dir of Sudanese Co for Mineral Resources during the rule of Al Bashir. Dabanga
August 29
Sudanese Revolutionary Front urged dialogue facilitated by the Tripartite Mechanism to resolve the protracted political crisis. Osama Saeed stressed the country is moving towards 2 options, either consensus between political actors or collapse. The group launched a 2-phase initiative reiterating adherence to the 2019 constitutional declaration and participation of the military, distancing themselves from FFC who call for a fully civilian government. The coalition of 4 armed groups that signed the Juba Peace Agreement renewed its demand to hand over to ICC indicted former officials, and investigation into crimes and human rights violations committed before and after the Dec revolution. Sudan Tribune
Central Comm of Sudan Doctors reports 18 protesters were injured during Aug 25 Marches of Millions, including 3 cases of protesters being hit by vehicles belonging to regular forces, wounded with rubber bullets, 2 injuries to the head with tear gas canisters, isolated cases of injuries as a result of direct targeting of tear gas canisters, beatings with batons and cases of respiratory difficulty with tear gas. At least 38 protesters in Khartoum were detained, Emergency Lawyers said. The lawyers are monitoring legal procedures at N Khartoum Police Dept. Coordination of the Khartoum City Resistance Comm called for renewed Marches of the Millions on Aug 31. Dabanga
Elections of Sudanese Journalists Syndicate, the first in 30 years, launched in Khartoum were successfully concluded. Abdelmonim Abu Idris of Agence France-Presse was democratically chosen as the new chair. The election committee allowed journalists in the states and outside Sudan to vote electronically, the first of its kind in Sudan, in which 7 candidates ran. This is the latest democratic exercise in more than 30 years in the history of unions. The union is represented by a general assembly based on international laws such as the ILO Convention ratified by Sudan and entered into force in 2021. Trade unions in Sudan, established in 1947, have always been well-organised. They were instrumental in the 1964 Revolution which overthrew Abboud’s dictatorship, and the popular uprising against El Nimeiri in 1985 when the people chose their leadership represented by the Union Assoc. For this reason, Al Bashir dissolved unions
and professional associations and established new unions affiliated with his regime. When the regime was overthrown and a Transitional Government was installed after a popular revolution, the civilian government which shared power with the military dismantled unions affiliated with the former regime. Now that the military is in full power again after the coup of Oct authorities are planning to reinstate many Al Bashir-affiliated unions. Sudanese Professionals Assoc rejects unions of the establishment, these unions do the opposite of real union work. Earlier this month 27 workers’ groups staged a vigil in front of the ILO in Khartoum in protest against plans of the military to restore the legitimacy of trade unions set up by Al Bashir. Dabanga
A lawyer accused Police and Pub Prosecutor’s Office of illegally detaining 8 anti-coup protesters held for the alleged killing of a military intelligence sergeant. Police and the Prosecutor violated the Code of Criminal Procedure and Chief Justice’s circular by keeping our clients in jail, Rana Abdel Ghafar. Previously, the trial judge refused to extend detention due to lack of evidence. The Criminal Code gives the judge authority to renew detention for 2 weeks based on a report by the Pub Prosecutor. The arrest can be renewed every 2 weeks, not exceeding 6 months. In an administrative circular, no defendant shall continue to be imprisoned unless Pub Prosecution presented evidence confirming the charges. Khartoum Bahri Criminal Investigations Prosecution has no evidence against its clients. The sergeant was found dead last March, near the Republican Palace following an anti-coup demonstration. Sudan Tribune
August 27, 2022 Each
After his family was massacred and home torched, farmer Ayoub Haroun sought refuge alongside tens of thousands fleeing recent bitter ethnic conflict. More than a week of bloodshed last month in Blue Nile State left 105 dead and scores wounded, as rival groups fought in a complex conflict involving deep-seated grievances, control of land and battles for power. While the violence was the culmination of long-simmering ethnic tensions between the Hausa people and rival groups including the Barta, it has emphasized a wider security breakdown since a military coup last year. Before unrest erupted in Blue Nile, the western region of Darfur had seen months of ethnic clashes which killed hundreds. We were left no option but to defend our lands, Al-Jaily Abdalla, from Hamaj people. Our homes were burnt to the ground, destruction spread everywhere, and there were multiple deaths. Haroun, a Hausa, was left homeless, one of 31,000 people from both sides forced to flee their houses: My brother and nephew were killed and my home was burnt along with the homes of the rest of my family.
Each side blames the other for starting the violence and accused the government of backing the other. Other protests called for unity and an end to tribalism in the impoverished nation. In July, senior leaders from rival groups agreed to a ceasefire. Blue Nile, a region awash with guns, bordering So Sudan and Ethiopia, is struggling to rebuild after decades of civil war. Conflict raged from the mid-90s to 2005, erupted again in 2011 as ethnic minority rebels battled Al Bashir. After the ouster of Bashir, rebels signed a peace deal, the latest in a string of agreements to put an end to conflict. Pro-democracy demonstrators accused the military and ex-rebel leaders who signed the peace pact of exacerbating ethnic tensions in Blue Nile for personal gain. Calls intensified to suspend the agreement. But the conflict today is less about battling the government, and more about who has the right to the land. Hausa people, prominent in W Africa, began arriving in Blue Nile over a century ago in search of grazing lands, according to International Crisis Group. 3 million Sudanese are Hausa, people with a reputation as skilled farmers. But tensions remain with groups who see the land as theirs, and violence erupted when Hausa elders asked civil authorities to manage their own affairs. Some saw that as a means to take the land. The land of Blue Nile is a red line for us, Barta leader Abu Shotal, it only belongs to original people of the region. Calm was restored after a heavy deployment of troops to Damazin, the State capital, and an overnight curfew remains in place. Arab News
August 26
Sudan protesters block roads to demand civilian rule. Hundreds blocked main roads in Khartoum, Omdurman and Bahri to demand full democratic civilian rule. The protests were organised by Local Resistance Comm Coordinators to demand democratic civilian rule. The protesters closed a number of main and tertiary roads with concrete barriers, tree trunks and burning tyres. Security authorities closed Al-Mek Nimr Bridge which links the capital with Bahri as well as streets leading to the presidential palace and vicinity of army Gen Command to prevent protesters from reaching it. MEE
August 25
The Displaced People & Refugees Gathering of Masalit, W Darfur stated people in Kalma, El Hasahisa, El Hamidiyah camps presented a memorandum to Chief Prosecutor of ICC containing the names of those who died in Darfur under Al Bashir’s leadership. The document reportedly proves the involvement of those accused of committing genocide, ethnic cleansing, crimes against humanity and war crimes. The group called on ICC to give special consideration to W Darfur, targeted in 2003 and subjected to the most heinous crimes Dec 2019-Aug 2022. Expressing distinct circumstances of victimisation, the group stressed the placement of W Darfur among priority areas that must be visited in any future visit of court officials. They welcomed Khan’s visit, but called for increased international involvement due to their loss in confidence in the government in bringing the perpetrators to justice. Dabanga ICC Chief Prosecutor Khan called on Sudanese authorities to cooperate in executing arrest warrants issued against Al-Bashir and his aides with regard to war crimes committed in Darfur. The Court demanded Khartoum hand over Al-Bashir and 3 aides. While the Court is seeking to execute the warrants, the challenge is to achieve cooperation with the government. Khan pointed to a recent retreat in cooperation: the overall picture…remained challenging and represents a backwards step from the strong period of cooperation Feb-Oct 2021. ICC will arrive to open an office there. ICC accuses the politicians of involvement in extrajudicial killings of 260 people and raping dozens of women, looting, burning and intimidating thousands in W Darfur. Sudan Tribune Ugandan government turned down a request by Sudanese rebels to reside in the country, citing their lack of commitment to genuine causes. Abdel Wahid Mohamed Al-Nur had his request for a residential permit rejected on directives from Pres Museveni, who faulted Al-Nur for refusing to accept peaceful negotiation with the government of Sudan: He is using community members and the fighting as the cover for illicit business activities. He is openly involved in illicit mining. He has forgotten the cause of Darfur. It remains unclear how Al-Nur intends to end conflict in Darfur where the war forced local people to relocate into mountainous area or fled to Chad, CAR or Libya. Al-Nur advocates total regime change and removal of Arab tribes which the government in Khartoum settled in areas historically owned or associated with his ethnic group. Sudan Tribune
August 24
A senior leader of FFC voiced rejection of a draft constitutional declaration by National Consensus Forces. NCF leaders including armed groups supporting the military coup signed documents to achieve the transition and organise general elections. Unionist Alliance…reject proposed declaration, which speaks openly about the participation of the military. This constitutes an obstacle to any dialogue with forces of revolution, particularly FFC that call for full civil transitional authority; army and RSF unwillingness to participate in the new government, so under this conditions, how can a political force insist on their participation in power? We in Unionist Alliance categorically rejected this matter. Sudan Tribune
The number of deaths from torrential rains and flooding has risen to 89 and 50,000 homes across the country have been destroyed. Heavy rainfall resumed in El Gezira and across northern Sudan, with more than 85mm of rain falling in Dongola Tues…the flooding of roads connecting Wad Madani and El Managil is hampering delivery of aid. 10,000 farmers owning agricultural land containing cotton, beans and sorghum have been impacted. OCHA reported 25,000-30,000 people in El Managil affected on Sun. Tues, 156,000 people across the whole of Sudan affected by the past month of flooding. OCHA confirms the flood waters restrict movement of commercial and humanitarian supplies. The authorities of El Gezira and communities are doing maintenance work on the road to facilitate movement of people. The UN agency states some humanitarian
partners reported delays for travel permits…delayed movement from Khartoum to the States and hampers response. US Emb affirmed readiness to help…working with the international community and UN to provide direct assistance through USAID. Khartoum Resistance Comm Coordination announced its intention to support those affected by torrential rains and floods. They previously called for a general strike to be held today to protest against the ruling junta, but postponed the action to organise help for those affected by floods.
August 23
Chief Prosecutor of ICC talks with officials in Kalma Camp for the displaced in relation to the trial of Ali Kushayb on 31 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity…the displaced of Darfur need to see justice done and not just hear about it. He assured local witnesses and victims would be protected for their efforts prosecuting the suspected war criminal. Legal expert Saleh Mahmoud called on victims to protest the visit over delay in handing over wanted persons…called for campaigns to demand extradition of Al Bashir. Women’s Union in Kalma Camp, Halima Musa, demanded those who perpetrated crimes against humanity should be held accountable as soon as possible. Rather than ordering atrocities, Kushayb was an enthusiastic active participant. In April the trial opened in The Hague during which Prosecutor Khan presented a litany of atrocities in Kutum, Bindisi, Mukjar, Wadi Salih in Darfur, rapes, children being targeted and attacked and abducted, men and boys executed, homes wantonly destroyed. He emphasised the suffering of people displaced by the violence, especially children. The Trial Chamber granted protective measures to some witnesses, who had their voice and image disguised, as well as testimony heard from a private location. Witness spoke of attacks on villages and described burning, looting and arrests, identifying perpetrators of the attacks as Janjaweed…explained the meaning of the word Janjaweed, a group of people from Arab tribes who ride on horseback, own weapons and kill people from different tribes…they pillaged and burnt down villages. Dabanga
The suspended Empowerment Removal Committee denounced statements by Minni Minawi who holds it responsible for flooding in El Gezira due to confiscation of tools and machinery to dig and maintain irrigation canals. The SLM leader accused the Comm of having confiscated machinery of the El Gezira Agricultural Scheme, which used to be one of the largest irrigation projects in the world. ERC explained the machinery was obtained by companies without payment. ERC recovered and seized 312 machines from 27 companies obtained from Sudan Agricultural Bank without paying for them with approval of El Gezira Scheme…the machinery contributed to sabotaging the engineering system of older irrigation canals, which caused losses to farmers forced to abandon their lands. ERC pointed to Minawi’s association with the companies’ most prominent owner, Abdelbagi Ali, NCP. This is by no means the first time remnants of the former regime are accused of sabotaging the irrigation scheme, mismanagement, corruption, embezzlement and looting resources. Al Bashir described the scheme as a burden on the country’s budget and worked to transfer land ownership to the private sector and foreign investors; the Farmers Union was disbanded. ERC said the coup caused suspension of $2b from the Intl Development Assoc, $650m to be allocated to maintenance of irrigation systems. Minawi, Gov of Darfur and leading member of FFC-National Accord, held the government of Hamdok and Sovereignty Council responsible for the situation after the floods. Dabanga
Workers Union of Khashm El Girba Hosp, Kassala gave Min of Health 24 hours to dismiss the director, threatening to go on strike. Staff hold the director responsible for deterioration of medical performance and patient care. The medics highlighted tensions due to care quality and expressed fears of disputes and assaults by relatives of patients if conditions will not improve soon. El Fasher hospitals and health centres remain closed as staff remained on strike the 4th week. N Darfur Employees Protest Comm: until now no solutions were offered by the State government. Instead, the government tried to demonise the Comm. The Comm will continue its strike until the government fulfils overdue payment of monthly dues, 2 Eid grants and the infection allowance for health cadres. Protesters closed Canar oil field in Abyei, W Kordofan to demand development and improved working conditions for local communities. Engineer Habib Debba told Radio Dabanga a group of non-contracted workers and residents of the area blocked the entrance. They demand development to improve infrastructure, and health and education services. They demand more and cleaner drinking water, improved working conditions. The sit-in by residents of Zamzam Camp for internally displaced people in N Darfur continued its 3rd day blocking the road between El Fasher and Nyala. They demand increased security and better basic services to address dire living conditions at the camp.
August 22
UN Office for the Coord of Humanitarian Affairs: humanitarian needs are at an all-time high in Sudan. Heavy rainfall and flash floods displaced 2,500 people in
Al Managil Al Jazirah State, affected 17 villages; the road from Wad Medani is unpassable in few areas. 9 villages are surrounded by floodwater, and 25,000-30,000 people have been affected. 2022 Humanitarian Needs Overview: 855,800 people in Al Jazirah need humanitarian assistance, while 91,650 received some humanitarian assistance Jan-June 2022. Sudan Tribune
August 21
ICC Chief Prosecutor arrived in Sudan. The prosecutor and a court delegation will hold meetings with senior officials, and he will be visiting Darfur. Khan’s predecessor, Fatou Bensouda, held talks in 2021, bringing former leaders one step closer to being tried for war crimes. Bashir remains wanted over his role in the Darfur conflict, which pitted ethnic African minority rebels complaining of discrimination against his government. Khartoum responded by unleashing the notorious Janjaweed militia, recruited from mainly Arab nomadic peoples. Human rights groups long accused Bashir and aides of using a scorched earth policy, raping, killing, looting and burning villages. 300,000 people were killed and 2.5 million displaced. Bashir faces charges of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. In April, Janjaweed militia leader Ali Kushayb, faced the ICC in its first trial for war crimes in Darfur. Arab News
Sudan offered more oil to Russia’s Zarubezhneft Oil Co. Undersecy Min of Minerals Zeinelabdeen affirmed readiness to enter into partnerships with Russia. Abulhasan, Dir of Oil Exploration & Production Admin, said they discussed Russia’s Zarubezhneft proposal for investments: We previously provided several blocks for development, now we have added more in regions with gas and oil potential. Dmitry Semyonov, Energy Min Intl Coop Dept: the number of oil blocks for development by our company, with Sudan’s Energy & Oil Min and state company Sudapec, was increased. We agreed to discuss cooperation beyond production to look at oil recovery technologies, gas utilisation, oil refining, petrochemicals and training…bilateral cooperation in the agro-industrial complex…increasing turnover of agricultural products. Trade turnover in agricultural products between Russia and Sudan exceeded $287m in 2021, and totalled $137.7m 2022 when wheat and sunflower oil were supplied to the Sudanese market. Russia’s main imports from Sudan are non-food extracts, natural resins and live primates. Russian-Sudanese joint ministerial committee concluded with agreements in economy, agriculture, trade, industry, tourism, transport, communications, energy, mining, geology and higher education. Officials completed ratification procedures exempting diplomatic passport holders from entry visas…agreed to enhance cooperation at UN and international forums. The military junta has been keen on intensifying relations with Russia, in particular after the western community suspended aid. Sudan lost $4,364b pledged by the international community. A day after Russia invaded Ukraine, a Sudanese delegation headed by Hemeti visited Moscow where he declared support for Russia’s invasion. Hemeti is accused of letting Russia plunder gold in Sudan to boost Putin’s war effort. Dabanga
The number of people killed by torrential rains since the beginning of this month has risen to 79. Darfur camps for the displaced have been hit hard, S Darfur has been declared a disaster area. In El Gezira, floods broke roads and isolated entire villages. Most of Sudan’s 18 states have been affected by heavy rains, agricultural areas inundated. Humanitarian Aid Comm estimated 136,000 people have been affected by heavy rains and floods since May. OCHA reported localities affected this year may double in comparison with former years. Apart from destroying buildings, crops and land, swollen rivers and pools of standing water increase risk of water-borne diseases malaria, acute watery diarrhoea and cholera. Government intervention has been limited to affected towns and villages, bypassing the camps for the displaced, the most fragile areas in urgent need. Social media activists expressed frustration about the lack of support by the army and RSF: When disasters occur, armies all over the world come to ward them off, but it seems that our army is a disaster that needs to be warded off. Journalist Dalia El Tahir: What should people of El Gezira do to attract the attention of the militia government, after their homes were destroyed and spending the nights in the open? They are living in tragic conditions without any support or assistance. Dabanga
SPLM-N cadres opposed to the coup chose Yasir Arman as Interim Chairman of newly established SPLM-Democratic Revolutionary Current after agreement between him and Agar to separate amicably. Arman accepted as Acting Chairman after nomination by 19 bodies. He pointed out that the nascent movement adopts the New Sudan Project as it supports the causes of all and is heading towards the street, in reference to support for peaceful protests against the coup. Arman said disagreement with Agar was deep and substantial about the coup. 33 members from SPLM-N leadership council, general secretariat and heads of branches including Min of Fed Govt Dinar who resigned recently issued a statement announcing establishment of SPLM-DRC. They tasked Arman with leadership for one year. The group decided to continue working under the Manifesto and constitution of SPLM-N of 2019. It is not clear if SPLM-DRC would be represented in the Sudanese Revolutionary Front coalition of armed groups. Sudan Tribune
August 20
Min of Interior and Police Gen Directorate issued a decision establishing Community Police Service. The spokesman declined to answer questions about how and why and what was activated. Having in mind the oppressive practices of the Public Order Police of the former regime, commentators and activists said this Community Police Service would restrict individual liberties and public freedoms. The transitional authorities in Nov 2019 abolished the Public Order Law enacted during the rule of al-Bashir. The law consists of 25 articles related to public conduct at events, markets, and gives police officers broad arrest powers. The repressive law targets women in particular, seeks to impose Islamic public morals and punishes violators with flogging. Amnesty International: repeal of the Public Order Law was a big step for women’s rights. Legal Counsel al-Nagi: After the coup there was a constitutional vacuum, and the Sovereign Council no longer has the authority to annul, amend, enact or reinstate a repealed law. Any action of the Sovereign Council in this regard is void. Lawyers warned of the return of the Public Order Police under a new name…the beginning of restriction on freedoms and continuation of human rights violations. Attiyat Mustafa, women’s rights activist and former Dir Gen of the Unit for Combating Violence against Women: Before its repeal, we continued to raise objections to the procedures and methods of law enforcement agents. Their methods were unacceptable even by the standards and teachings of religion that forbid defamation and intrusion into the privacy of others. Sudan Tribune
Darfur Lawyers Assoc revealed detention of 21 persons in Alhuda Prison for 1 year without trial. The detainees were held in El-Geneina Prison following intercommunal violence in W Darfur. Authorities arrested hundreds following repeated tribal attacks and imprisoned them in Pt Sudan and Khartoum prisons without trial. The AG requested their release underlining that their detention is illegal after the lift of the state emergency… vowed to investigate if children were among detainees to ensure their release without waiting for a decision from the Sovereign Council. Hundreds were killed and thousands fled their homes to the State capital, while others crossed into Chad following tribal conflicts. The group have been contacted by families and relatives of 69 other detainees including children and students transferred from N Darfur to Alhuda Prison under the emergency law. The lawyers are planning to request permission to visit detainees to provide legal assistance and make sure laws and decrees are implemented correctly.
SLA-Al Nur warned against Saudi investments in fertile Jebel Marra, saying such projects represent a provocation to war-affected refugees. Darfur received a delegation of Saudi businessmen to assess future investment projects including Central Darfur. Saudi investors plan to invest in agriculture and agri-food, livestock and tourism with plans developing infrastructures in the war-ravaged region. SLA rejected such projects saying priority should be given to genuine peace ensuring the return of the displaced to their homeland: We consider (these projects) a provocation and insult to the victims and displaced persons and legitimizing the occupation of their lands to impose a fait accompli…We will never tolerate attempts to seize resources, wealth and lands. SLM-AW refused to join political processes to settle the Darfur conflict. The rebel group require to end attacks on civilians, disband militiamen and return displaced people to their areas of origin. They ask for justice and compensation for victims of war. UN reports say the armed group strengthened its military capabilities during recent years as they benefit from gold mines in the controlled area. Sudan Tribune
August 19
New Community Police triggered widespread controversy…fears the decision will facilitate return of the Public Order Police. Opponents fear the new force will severely restrict freedoms and pose a threat to the ideals of the 2019 Dec Revolution and return of the notorious Public Order Police that had a profound impact on society during the dictatorship of Al Bashir. Police Press Office spoke about community partnership to prevent crime to ensure success in performing its tasks, essentially asking Sudanese to participate in this policing system and watch their neighbours. The Public Order Law and Public Order Police were abolished after the downfall of Al Bashir. The system disproportionately affected women. PM Hamdok: this law is notorious for being used as a tool of exploitation, humiliation, violation of rights. Many used this law for financial, psychological exploitation…a lot of women and youth endured confiscation of their belongings and unforgettable harm. Since the introduction of Muslim Sharia law 1983, the infamous Public Order Act enforced strict moral codes by prohibiting ‘indecent and immoral acts.’ Most offenses relate to interactions between men and women, dancing, choice of dress, smoking and personal behaviour authorities deemed improper. Sudanese were asked to co-operate. Reem Abbas: Al Bashir’s Islamist government used the Public Order Law to sustain power through an environment of fear. A citizen had the power to call on the public order if he saw girls dressed in indecent
clothing or suspected a mixed party was taking place in a private house. The fact that the Law contained vague phrases such as ‘indecent clothing’ gave officers the chance to decide what is decent and indecent. Your safety and freedom was dependent on the opinion and personal preferences of public order officers and random men loitering on the street armed with a misogynistic vendetta. Many consider introduction of Community Police a return to the Public Order Police under a new name. Prominent human rights lawyer Nabil Adib condemned the idea. Unless reform takes place and communities feel safe and satisfied, formation of Community Police will only lead to more abuse of power and human rights violations. Ardol, FFC-National Accord: If this statement is true, it means a return to the notorious Public Order Police, a dangerous and unacceptable matter that cannot be tolerated. The police does not have the right to determine the people’s way of life. News already circulated that a concert by well-known singer Moataz Sabahi was cancelled on orders of Community Police. Dabanga
Houses demolished by torrential rains in El Salam Camp for the displaced has risen to 4,000; families are sleeping rough. In Katila floods caused a shortage of clean drinking water, whilst collapse of the dam near Um Dafug threatens to flood the entire town. Rainy Season Emergency Comm is seeking to provide basic necessities with aid organisations and zakat Muslim alms in S Darfur and Khartoum. Many farms were destroyed by flooding in Central and S Darfur as they are often located next to rivers. This is particularly worrying because the agricultural season is already under threat and, with the economic crisis and rising inflation, food security is in peril. Torrential rains destroyed 7,490 homes in Kalma camp affecting 20,000 families; most are without shelter or food, lack the simplest food and non-food items, 2,322 children malnourished and 6 died of malnutrition after WFP had to suspend support. Comm for Humanitarian Aid in Katila expressed fear of deterioration of health conditions: Drinking water sources are blocked due to the floods, which forces people to drink from stagnant water where disease vectors are breeding. He reported some cases of watery diarrhea and malaria…excessive rainwater washed away the dam and swept most of the farms. The people attempted to block the water with their limited capabilities, but couldn’t stop the water from flooding large parts of the town…accused authorities of not moving a finger despite repeated warnings about imminent flooding. A native administration leader expressed regrets concerning the loss of the large fish wealth cultivated in the dam’s lake over the past years. It is one of the largest water storage dams in S Darfur. Dabanga
August 18
Local activists lambasted N Darfur State Security Comm concerning incidents in Kutum which left 7 dead. Gunmen killed 9 and wounded and abducted 9 others in an apparent revenge attack spanning 7 villages…the attack was retaliation for 2 other killings by unknown suspects in Senana; relatives of people killed boarded vehicles, motorcycles and horses and headed for villages 30m north; gunmen began shooting people inside its main marketplace. The attackers torched 6 other villages. Senana and Kornaga were entirely burnt down, and Um Kateera and Hillet El Faki partially burnt down. Dabanga
August 17
A senior member of Sennar Resistance Comm was violently assaulted after being taken off a bus and detained by intelligence services from Um Rawaba, N Kordofan. El Tayeb Aratmeily told Radio Dabanga intelligence officers stopped the bus he was traveling on to Kosti. The officers proceeded to remove him and several other passengers for inspection before taking him away to the intelligence office…he was repeatedly hit on the head with the butt of a rifle until he lost consciousness. He said he was punched, kicked and verbally abused before being released hours later.
August 16
FFC-CC condemn Sudan People’s Call initiative as anti-democratic attempt to turn back the clock that allows the military to control politics. Sudan People’s Call initiative, backed by El Burhan, was launched last month by renowned Sufi leader El Jad. A conference recommended the High Council of Armed Forces be given broad authority including sovereign powers, so it will be the supreme authority in the country. El Bereir, NUP: the initiative is an attempt to turn back the clock and tame the revolutionary political forces that believe in democratic transformation by a force that defends the military coup. Sudan People’s Call from the beginning defined the crisis as a conflict between civilians. While the real crisis is caused by the coup which blocks the path to a genuine civilian-led democratic transformation. Parties invited to the conference supported the 1989 coup and the Oct coup. The conference involved dignitaries of the former regime from banned NCP and allied groups. All expressed support for military leaders who they perceive as their saviours. The conference concluded by making recommendations for the transitional period in which the military will be granted far-reaching powers…recommended termination of UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission blamed for interfering with Sudan’s politics. El Burhan proposed a High Council of Armed Forces formed by commanders from SAF and RSF…responsible for security and defence and related responsibilities. Reactions by activists were sceptical: El Burhan’s speech is testimony to mounting popular pressure but it’s simply the snake changing its skin. While pretending to exit politics, the army is creating a defence council of SAF and RSF controlling the coercive power of the state with no civilian oversight. Dabanga
August 15
US student of Sudanese descent was shot dead outside a Gen Intelligence Svcs social club, following an altercation with a security guard. Mohamed Majdi Taha, 21, a student at MIT, was visiting on a break. He was beaten by the club’s security guards and gunned down. The student was a son of Majdi Mohamed Abdallah Taha, CEO of telecom Sudani. A video on social media detailing Taha’s final moments shows slain student reportedly tried to get away with his friends in a car after he was beaten. MIT issued a statement mourning the tragic loss of such a promising young person. He was an active voice in Boston’s Sudanese community, where he gave speeches and led
Mohamed Majdi Taha, 21 chants at rallies in support of pro-democracy protests. Central Comm of Sudanese Doctors: authorities exercised carte blanche when dealing with protesters or anyone challenging their authority. 125 demonstrators have been run over. The 2nd was the death of a girl, Rawan Elyas, 5, run over by a vehicle during June 7 processions.
August 14
Emergency lawyers said 35 people including 4 children were detained following March of Millions in Khartoum and Omdurman…security forces fired tear gas at protesters and their lawyer’s office and beat and dragged those they detained…many were injured due to excessive force. Marches of Millions took place across a number of cities and towns. Dabanga
August 13
Sudanese-Libyan patrol announced 8 Sudanese individuals have been rescued and 20 bodies were found in the desert. Those found were coming from N Darfur heading to Libya. Sudan is fighting the phenomenon of irregular migration whose rates doubled in recent years on borders with Ethiopia and Eritrea, as well as Libya. Smuggling and human trafficking are led by organised gangs that transport migrants to Israel via Egypt, and Europe via Libya. Middle East Monitor
Libyan authorities found 15 migrants dead in the desert on the borders with Sudan, the latest tragedy involving migrants seeking a better life in Europe via perilous journeys through the conflict-wrecked nation. Dept for Combating Irregular Migration said the migrants were on their way to Libya when their vehicle broke down due to lack of fuel. 9 migrants survived while 2 remain missing in the desert. There were women and children among the migrants. The migrants likely attempted to reach western Libya to board trafficking boats to Europe. The tragedy was the latest in Libya’s sprawling desert. In June, authorities found bodies of 20 migrants who died of thirst after their vehicle broke down close to Chad. Libya in recent years emerged as the dominant transit point for migrants fleeing war and poverty in Africa and Middle East. The oil-rich country plunged into chaos following a NATO-backed uprising that toppled Qaddafi. Human traffickers benefited from the chaos, smuggling migrants across the lengthy borders with 6 nations. The migrants are packed into ill-equipped rubber boats and set off on risky sea voyages.
August 12
The workshop on arrangements for a transitional constitutional framework, launched by the Sudanese Bar Assoc, concluded with a set of recommendations, including distancing the military from politics. The workshop aimed to brainstorm about the contents of a transitional constitutional framework and saw widespread participation from members of FFC and Democratic Unionist Party. One of the key recommendations is distancing the military from politics and removing them from transitional rule with the aim of establishing a full democratic civilian government. The group highlighted the importance of transitional justice for Sudan, which would require comprehensive reform of the military system, the security apparatus and judiciary, all based on a new transitional constitution document and laws revised according to the rights of the people which constitute the core of the revolution. They stressed the need to achieve a just and comprehensive peace, including agreements with the 2 hold-out rebel movements that have not signed the Juba Peace Agreement.
A group of men in civilian clothes carrying metal polls, stones attacked the constitutional workshop on its last day at the Sudan Bar Assoc office. The group reportedly included lawyers affiliated with the ousted regime of dictator Al Bashir and associates of right-wing political groups. Perthes, Head of UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan, described the attempted storming as unacceptable. Embassies of Norway, UK, US issued a statement to strongly condemn attempts to disrupt through violence the Sudanese Bar Assoc workshop on a framework for transitional constitutional arrangements. This workshop is an inclusive, Sudanese-led initiative, which brings together a wide range of groups in order to stimulate progress towards an agreed framework for resolving the political crisis. Dabanga
August 11
SPLM-N Agar in N Darfur proposed to hold a conference to end the rift within the group and avoid a spilt following growing division over its representation in FFC. After the coup SPLM-N Dep Leader Yasir Arman had been arrested while Malik Agar remained in the Sovereign Council. Agar said rejection of the coup means a return to war. The disagreement spread to the movement’s branches inside and outside Sudan when Agar criticised the participation of his deputy and other cadres in FFC meetings and activities. His remarks triggered a wave of statements supporting the anti-coup. Gov Min Dinar, who is from S Kordofan, resigned from her position in the backdrop of the increasing difference between the factions. Sudan Tribune
Thousands of pro-democracy protesters marched in Khartoum and other cities against the military. The protesters, who took to the streets after a short break at the beginning of Aug, chanted against the army and demanded military generals step down from power: We want full civilian rule, none of those people will accept less than this. We see the military is maneuvering to gain time while the country is deteriorating in all aspects of life. Police used tear gas and batons to disperse protesters…thousands protested in Wad Medani, Pt Sudan and Nyala. Daglo said the army is ready to hand over power to civilian rulers after talks to achieve national consensus. Middle East Monitor
August 10 Thousands of protesters rallied against last year’s military coup to demand civilian rule and better living conditions. Demonstrators in downtown Khartoum shouted for the army to go back to the barracks, demonstrations saw protesters gather on a main street in Khartoum, where they called for safety and security and free health care and education.
Last month Burhan pledged to step aside and make way for factions to agree on a civilian government. Civilian leaders dismissed his move as a ruse, and pro-democracy protesters held fast to their rallying cry of no negotiation, no partnership with the military. Burhan last month welcomed an initiative led by a renowned Sufi religious leader Al-Jed in the latest attempt to reach national consensus. Protesters were sceptical: This initiative doesn’t represent any revolutionaries. They are people who are only seeking power. We reject it completely. Another protester told AFP such initiatives are suspicious and do not represent the street. The New Arab
Last June in an undisclosed location, the Council of the Sudanese Islamic Movement held a secret convention in which they adopted new strategic objectives and elected Former Foreign Min Karti as Secy Gen. News about the meeting was picked up by only a handful of media outlets due to the secret nature of the convention. A figure affiliated with former ruling NCP confirmed the convention but declined to offer details. One of the sources said: [Islamic] movement’s organizational bodies with all its executive and legislative levels and ever since Oct 25 have been able to meet whenever, however and wherever they wanted…held several important meetings at different times with the goal of rebuilding their organizational structures. Dep Secy-Gen SPLM-N Arman with apparent knowledge of the meetings said it was attended by 2 VPs of al-Bashir, former state governors and a large number of the group’s leaders. Arman warned in Facebook the meeting: put the final touches to the comprehensive plan to sabotage the revolution and reassert control over the state, especially after reorganization of bodies such as Popular Security. They discussed opportunities presented by the coup. Another Islamist source told Sudan Tribune the Islamist Movement struggled to regroup ever since the fall of Bashir but recently made headway thanks to the efforts of Karti who took over as Acting Secy Gen: [Karti] feels more comfortable and confident and attended meetings which saw wider participation of Islamists. Bashir regime leaders currently in prison have a say in NCP world despite being described as irrelevant by former advisor.
August 9
Emergency Lawyers accused authorities of fabricating charges against 3 activists detained without arrest warrant and brought to court without notifying lawyers and relatives. Lawyer Hozeifa Omar was held by Security Forces whilst performing his duties in a courtroom in Kassala. The lawyers said this represents a clear and explicit violation of the legal profession, as no lawyer is allowed to be detained whilst performing his duty without prior referral to the Lawyers Syndicate to raise immunity before being arrested on clear charges. The statement referred to recent assaults on lawyers and judges by Police and Security Forces and stressed that it is important to not allow these violations against lawyers to take place and to not keep silent. Detention campaigns have been used by authorities as a tool to suppress political dissent, especially since the coup. Lawyers accused authorities of fabricating charges against activists Musab Ahmed Sanjo, Sabir Ismail Maykal and Atef Osman Kamal detained from their homes in Khartoum Aug 2 without an arrest warrant and taken to an unknown location by men in civilian clothes. Lawyers described this as a historical turning point in the work of the Public Prosecution, the sole institution entrusted with supervising police guards and investigating complaints…in light of the prosecution’s failure to perform its role, turning a blind eye to this legal farce and not using its authority [to preserve the course of justice], Emergency Lawyers will follow up on detainees and investigate the reasons for their transfer to court: We will stand with them until they are free. Aug 4, the lawyers could report detainees were being held at Khartoum N Police CID. Journalists, prominent activists and political figures have been targeted. Detentions connected to practices of the Al Bashir era are reappearing, with displaced leaders, Christians and minority groups being targeted. Dabanga
23 demonstrators were injured in Khartoum and Omdurman this weekend. 7 were detained in Bahri, including 3 minors. Emergency Lawyers condemned the excessive violence with which coup forces confronted defenceless revolutionaries. Central Comm Sudan Doctors reported most injuries were caused by stun grenades and tear gas canisters fired by Security Forces, and by stones thrown at government forces; 2 were hit by rubber bullets whilst 2 had respiratory problems because of excessive use of tear gas…an unknown number were treated by field aid teams rather than in hospitals, not included in the list.
Emergency Lawyers called the detentions a clear violation of the right of peaceful expression guaranteed by Sudanese law and international laws…they began necessary legal procedures to release detainees on bail immediately; 4 were released, bail for 3 minors was approved not much later and their families were contacted. The lawyers condemned the excessive violence with which coup forces confronted defenceless revolutionaries at El Azhari Sq, Omdurman. They appealed to international human rights organisations to register all violations so perpetrators can be brought to justice. Emergency Lawyers and CCDS are part of a group that announced a new campaign to expose human rights violations by the military against pro-democracy protesters. El Gezira, Wad Madani Resistance Comm organised a large demonstration n which they demanded full civilian rule and overthrow of the coup regime. Despite the heavy presence of Security Forces, the march reached its destination in city centre peacefully; speakers addressed the crowd about current political developments. Dabanga
A sit-in against toxic and harmful mining practices in R Nile State entered its 2nd week. The sit-in succeeded in halting mining operations in the area, including those of Russian-owned gold mining company Meroe Gold. The sit-in was organised by people living around El Ibeidiya in Berber locality to demand an end to the use of toxic chemicals and other harmful practices in mining and development projects. The protesters demand dismissal of the manager of Sudanese Mineral Resources Co, Mubarak Ardol, Secy-Gen of FFC-National Accord Forces, a split-off from FFC led by former rebel leaders, a controversial figure. Ardol moved away from SPLM-N and became Dir of the Sudanese Co for Mineral Resources with friendly ties to Al Bashir. He has been accused of corruption. Next to the impact of harmful mining processes, locals are angry that none of the revenue has been invested locally, despite the urgent need to improve living conditions. The residents call for better basic services and employment opportunities, including in mining companies. Mamoun Absher, R Nile State action group and sit-in committee, said the Exec Dir of Berber locality pledged to improve basic services and maintenance of health centres, schools and playgrounds during his meeting with protesters…R Nile State government would set up more drinking water projects, upgrade El Gumbarab Hosp and construct a ring road linking Berber town with El Ibeidiya. Dabanga
The funding of agricultural projects in El Gedaref halved this year. The number of farmers who applied and received loans this year decreased by 85%. 3,936 farmers received funding during the rainy season of 2021, while the number this year reached 605. Farmers in eastern Sudan were thinking about establishing cooperative companies that will use collective economic and bargaining power to provide necessary supplies and market produce by themselves. This method removes farmers from the control of financiers over markets. In early June farmers in El Gezira expressed serious concerns about their ability to start cultivating during June-Sept rainfall season. Ahmed Babiker, Secy-Gen of El Gezira & El Managil Farmers Assoc, pointed to the catastrophe of last year because of the government’s lack of commitment to set prices for cultivation needs on time. The farmers were forced to take loans from the Agricultural Bank to prepare for the winter season, as the bank’s financing stopped 5 years ago, and they did not receive any state support. If the situation continues, there will be no cultivation anymore in El Gezira. A farmer in neighbouring Sennar said the main agricultural season last year not only suffered from lack of rain, but also because of delay in financing and significant rise in fuel prices. About 90% of farmers are insolvent. The Famine Early Warning Systems Network said in its July report farmers in semi- mechanised sectors are facing constraints obtaining bank credit to start agricultural operations. High fuel prices and acute fuel shortages are reducing land preparation that usually begin in April…dam operating engineers and workers strike delayed water supplies to fields before rains were fully established. Delays in planting, lower planted acreage and lower access to irrigation are likely to reduce harvest, particularly for staple food crops. Sorghum and millet average retail prices are 182-613% higher than last year. Sudan continues to experience poor macroeconomic conditions due to persistent shortages of hard currency reserves, poor SDG to USD exchange rate, and high inflation. This has continued reducing government and private sector ability to import essential food and non-food items including improved seeds, fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides for the 22/23 season. Dabanga
SPLM-N al-Hilu ready to endorse a new transitional constitutional declaration if it matches its vision for a secular state. The FFC coalition intends to present a constitutional declaration to the forces of the revolution in coming days. The text will focus on full civilian government to implement needed reforms before elections. If the constitutional declaration is in agreement with SPLM-N’s vision to preserve the rights of marginalised people, there is no reason for us to oppose it, Mohamed Youssif Al-Mustafa, SPLM-N. Al-Mustafa called to include repeal of laws enacted by the former regime, dissolution of RSF and GIS, as well as achieving a just peace. FFC says the constitutional declaration establishes a new constitutional system in which the role of the army is limited to maintaining security, protecting constitutional order and the country’s integrity. So Sudan peace talks between the government and SPLM-N al-Hilu stalled over the definition of separation of state and religion and demand for self-determination for regions south of Kordofan and Blue Nile. Sudanese Professionals Assoc Alwaleed Ali stated the association would not consider any constitutional declaration that does not include accountability for coup leaders and supporters but also for those involved in the bloody raid on the pro-democracy sit-in in 2019…they call for cancellation of the Juba Peace Agreement and dissolution of FFC’s leadership council. Sudan Tribune
Buthaina Dinar, Fed Government Min, resigned from her position as her group, SPLM-N, is witnessing growing divisions over the coup. Malik Agar made the peace agreement his priority and distanced himself from FFC, while Yasir Arman said restoration of democratic rule is key for peace and stability. Their difference gradually engulfed the whole movement following Agar statements criticizing FFC and those who participate in anti-coup activities. Agar stated the movement has nothing to do with those who participate in activities of FFC leadership and committees. Arman continued to mobilize SPLM-N’s political wing in support of anti-coup forces. Dinar is resigning from the transitional in support of the revolution and peace: In continuation of my position in support of the causes of the revolution and demands of the Sudanese people and peace, I will present a reasoned resignation from my position as Min of the Federal Government. Following the coup the Min decided to resign from her position despite the decision of coup leaders to maintain ministers who joined the government in accordance with the Juba Peace Agreement. She changed her mind, hoping a political agreement would be reached to restore the civilian-led government. Her resignation seems to result from the rift between supporters of the 2 historical leaders.
16 SPLM-N delegates representing the movement within FFC issued a statement to voice commitment to democratic change and the pro-democracy coalition, saying peace and democracy are intrinsically linked. SPLM-N is a founding member of the coalition, signatory of the FFC reunification declaration, Aug 2021. Arman and other members denounced Agar’s statement against participation in FFC: The statement attributed to Agar will not enjoy the support of the overwhelming majority of SPLM-N leadership and members…masses and friends. They declared unequivocal adherence to the achievements of the Juba Peace Agreement and gains it reaped for peoples of war-affected regions. …these regions actively participated in the Dec revolution, which put peace as one of its slogans. During the past Arman controlled the movement’s political organisation, while Agar counted on loyalty of fighters from his region. SPLM-N Agar, S Kordofan–Nuba Mtns, issued a statement in support and hailed his positions on the return of refugees, implementation of security arrangements and restructuring the army. The unsigned statement accused FFC of undermining the peace agreement, and denounced participation of the movement’s leaders in coalition offices, describing it a betrayal of the blood of thousands of martyrs. After the split of SPLM-N in Nuba Mtns in 1917, some members declined to follow al-Hilu. Sudan Tribune
August 7
Authorities in Zalingei, Central Darfur, detained a prominent member of the Arab Socialist Ba’ath Party. Emergency Lawyers said activist Hossam El Sayad is being held in Bahri in critical condition due to bullet wounds. Lawyers blamed security authorities for his failing health and demand El Sayad receive immediate medical treatment. Authorities granted permission for El Sayad’s mother to visit. El Sayad is believed to be a suspect in a report by Mil Intelligence.
Ali Hamdan, member of dissolved Empowerment Removal Committee, was held by Police in Zalingei following a post where he denounced the Police assault and detention of a member of Central Comm, FFC. Hamdan has been subjected to torture and his health has deteriorated. Hamdan rejected charges of committing information crimes and possession of narcotics, describing it an attempt to break the thorns of activists in the revolutionary movement…evidence of the Police’s transformation from a law-protecting body to a tool that oppresses the people. Hamdan was prevented from receiving any treatment and returned to his cell, a violation of humanitarian laws. Dabanga
August 6
Kameilab activists continue their sit-in at Haidob Port, Red Sea State, demanding the Sea Ports Corp pay compensation for use of their land. The sit-in entered its 15th day. When Haidob Port was built 2 years ago, Sea Ports Corp pledged to pay compensation to residents. The area is disputed by Amarar Beja clan. Militant Amarar carrying firearms attacked the sit-in July 31, 6 protesters were injured. Red Sea State authorities meeting with leaders of Kameilab and Amarar reached an agreement to stop hostilities. Haidob Port, built by China Harbour Engineering Co, is designated for export to mainly Asian markets. Work at all seaports stopped following protests by Beja youth against discrimination. A number of Beja youth blocked the Standards & Measurements
Authority in protest of the absence of hiring new staff. Personnel of the Authority left work in solidarity with the youth. Work is still suspended at Suakin, 2nd largest seaport. Newly appointed workers blocked access to Suakin to protest the hostile position against them by older workers who claim the port does not need extra workers, in particular if selection was made on a tribal basis.
Sudan Doctors Comm accused the Sovereignty Council of compromising national sovereignty after an armed attack by a Chadian militia killed several in Darfur. An armed militia crossing from Chad into a village within the Sudanese border killed 18 herdsmen before taking off with livestock. Doctors Comm pinned the blame on the Sovereignty Council as well as the armed struggle movements in the area: Citizens of nearby country transgressing on Sudanese citizens, lands and property signals a catastrophic vision of national sovereignty…the [Juba] peace [agreement] is not going to deal with the real roots of the political, social and national problems in the country. Al Taghyeer
August 5
Darfur Bar Assoc reported detention of 197 people by RAF in W Darfur in a campaign that targets tribal leaders who refuse to partake in RSF-led reconciliation. Several people disappeared. The campaign is targeting activists, teachers, students and farmers. Tribal leaders were targeted. RSF’s continuing malicious pursuits of Native Administration leaders who refused to sign their agreement with RSF Peace Festivals. These agreements brokered by Hemeti Dagalo have been criticised as superficial, not representing the interests of the people. They will not lead to real stability in Darfur, said human rights lawyer Saleh Mahmoud. 27 native leaders have withdrawn from the Reconciliation Comm. In Sirba 15 native leaders announce withdrawal from the Reconciliation Comm, citing the lack of neutral parties to formulate an agreement that meets the hopes and aspirations of everyone.
Many RSF members have been recruited from Darfuri Arab herding tribes involved in recent violence. They are not seen as an impartial presence by many of the tribes targeted. Darfur has a long history of strife between Arab herding tribes and non-Arab African herders or sedentary farmers. Arab tribesmen were recruited by the regime of Bashir to join Janjaweed militias. DBA: What is currently happening in W Darfur under so-called reconciliations is only a manifestation of using tribal groups for political purposes and squandering state resources that set communities against each other…RSF Col Ambeilo is responsible for committing grave crimes in the region, including crimes against humanity. Prominent leader of Gimir Tribe, Abakar El Tom, told Sudan Tribune since signing the reconciliation agreement Arab tribes violated the agreement at least 36 times. El Tom said dozens of Gimir were held this week, including 38 students and teachers, medical staff…many taken from their farms and deported to Pt Sudan Prison. Darfur lawyers hold the military government responsible for chaos in the country: detentions are due to the absence of any management of the country and absence of a clear role for civil and justice institutions entrusted with implementing the law and maintaining security and safety…a culture of superficial decisions based on tribal principles and impunity prevails, superficial reconciliation agreements do not address real problems between local communities and only serve the ambitions of certain individuals and groups.
UN Office for Coord of Humanitarian Affairs explained the humanitarian situation continued to be a major concern, with a steady increase in food insecurity, more civilian displacement and arrival of more refugees from neighbouring countries. 1/4 of Sudan’s population is facing acute food insecurity. OCHA estimated 4 million children under 5, pregnant and nursing women are acutely malnourished and in need of life-saving nutrition. Hunger is especially prevalent in Khartoum, Darfur, Kassala and White Nile States hardest hit by conflict and economic decline. 35,000 newly displaced people as a result of localised conflicts face even more risks of hunger. The highest prevalence of food insecurity was W Darfur 65%, Central Darfur 59%, N Darfur 56% and Blue Nile State 50%. Food insecurity worsened across most states, with households headed by women more food insecure than their counterparts by 11%. Economic vulnerability plays a major role in food insecurity as 95% of households spend more than 65% on food. WFP announced its plan to cut rations due to funding shortages…having to prioritise assistance based on resources and make heart-wrenching decisions. Dabanga
For the first time since collapse of Soviet U, Russia envisions modern aircraft- carrying warships creating infrastructure in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean and expanding cooperation with Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. With the exception of Syrian Port Tartus, the only foreign maritime facility where Russia intended a serious presence was Pt Sudan. The freezing of the agreement in 2021 by the Transitional Govt occurred because of the emerging thaw between Khartoum and Washington and desire of Sudanese military to obtain better economic guarantees from Moscow. UAE expressed a desire to invest in Darfur; Qatar offered Khartoum creation of an investment zone; Saudi Arabia has begun to explore investment in agriculture. The specifics of the agreement played an important role in Khartoum’s decision to delay deployment of Russian military infrastructure. Although the Russian military visited Khartoum in the last 2 years, the crude nature of the deal and involvement of mercenaries always made itself felt as soon as officials left Sudan. The military has once again become positive about prospects of the Russian military logistics center, as Western structures demand they adopt the constitutional declaration signed with civilian political forces from FFC. Another round of talks about Russian presence in the Red Sea is a predictable argument for political bargaining. All the more so when inflation in Sudan exceeds 200% and prices of imported staples wheat and fuel have risen more than 30% since 2020. According to The New Arab, the greatest concern about the return of Sudanese military to rapprochement with the Kremlin was expressed not by the West but by Egypt. Cairo has quite a lot of influence in Khartoum and is against establishment of Russian military facilities near its borders. A stable Sudan is in the interests of Egypt, which fears instability could cause a surge of immigrants, strengthening of local Muslim Brotherhood and conflict on its southern border.
Mercenaries from Wagner have long used Sudan to smuggle gold. The unaccounted-for gold is flown out of Khartoum or transported by car to Central African Rep, where Russian mercenaries have the largest presence on the continent. 2021, Russian Amb held a meeting with local mining officials and called for Meroe Gold, a company close to Wagner, to be less visible to American authorities. Daglo and al-Burhan have strong ties with Wagner but whether their tandem is ready to give Moscow access to the Red Sea coast is still a big question, especially when Russia’s economic opportunities have shrunk dramatically. Foreign Policy, citing US intelligence officials, reported Russia’s hopes of obtaining a base on the Red Sea collapsed. Moscow will have to look for other options to establish strongholds. Sudan’s Dep Foreign Min al-Hajj Ali and Russian Dep Foreign Min Bogdanov held talks on trade and economic cooperation. Burhan has a de facto military monopoly on political power, so he can strike a deal without the constitutionally required approval of political factions. This will cause a further rift between Sudan and the West, and the military may decide existing support from UAE and Egypt will help compensate for the loss of Western aid. Al Monitor
August 4
Sudanese authorities prevented a delegation of political and traditional leaders from crossing into Eritrea to take part in a forum sponsored by Eritrean Pres Afwerki to discuss tribal problems that affected security in east Sudan. Eritrea proposed to hold a peace conference for tribal components in eastern Sudan, pointing to the successful process that led to signing the eastern Sudan peace agreement in 2006. Al-Burhan declined the Eritrean proposition. Eritrea, as a neighbouring country, is concerned with the security and stability of the region: Eastern Sudan’s security and stability will positively affect Eritrea and it will also be the first affected by any crisis there. Sudan Tribune Emergency Lawyers expressed concern over the disappearance of Activist Musab Ahmed Sanjo, 29, who was kidnapped by a group of men wearing civilian clothes after morning prayers. Lawyers began a search campaign alongside family and friends as well as the Missing Persons Initiative. Those looking for Sanjo searched
Sanjo police stations and places of detention; his whereabouts are still unknown, and a criminal report was filed. Before his disappearance, Musab was receiving treatment for a health problem and due to undergo surgery in Cairo. Emergency Lawyers hold security authorities responsible for Musab’s disappearance, this falls under enforced disappearance. Khartoum Criminal Court decided to withdraw the case against Seifelislam Mohamed and 2 other young men. He was greeted by friends and family upon release and appears to be in a better state of health than previously. Mohamed was subjected to heavy beatings in detention, and suffered from blurred vision, pain in the abdomen and urinary tracts, uncontrollable shivering all over his body, and frequent fainting. Dabanga Dagalo Hemedti left for N’Djamena, capital of Chad, one day after the arrival of Darfur Gov Minawi, accompanied by Dir of General Intelligence Svc and head of Military Intelligence. Chadian Min of Defense met with Al-Burhan in the Sudanese capital; the visit dealt with the state of Sudanese-Chadian forces deployed along the borders, and the transfer of their presidency to Sudan. Al Taghyeer
August 3
19 women human rights and advocacy groups called to abolish death sentences by stoning and end continued acts of brutality violating women’s rights. A court in Kosty, White Nile State sentenced a 20-year-old woman to death by stoning for allegedly committing adultery. In response, women’s rights groups issued a statement denouncing the barbaric verdict imposed by the former Islamist regime.* This sentence is a clear violation of international human rights standards against torture and cruel or unusual punishment; stoning is still included as an obligatory sentence for certain crimes the Sudanese Criminal Act 1991, which remains in effect 2 years after the ouster of the al-Bashir regime. We call on the human rights community, AU, Arab League, UN bodies to demand Sudan observe women’s rights and prevent continued acts of brutality. 
We demand Sudanese political parties and organizations conduct a thorough review and reform of laws including the Criminal Act and Family Law, abolish punishment for adultery and remove all inhumane forms of punishment from the legal system. The civilian government formed after removal of the regime failed to abolish September Laws due to opposition by the military. At the time, the conciliatory head of the civilian government, Hamdok, accepted their position despite the significant role played by women in the revolution. The groups underscored the urgent need for reforming the legal and judiciary systems saying the country continues to be governed by a dysfunctional justice system in contradiction with its obligations under international human rights laws. Sudan failed to integrate ratification of the UN Convention against Torture & Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and the Intl Covenant of Civil & Political Rights into its national laws. Sudan is one of a few countries yet to ratify the Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women and Protocol to the African Charter on Human & Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa. The ratification had been endorsed by the council of ministers, but the military coup stopped the process. Sudan Tribune
* Media is quoted as it appears, descriptions like Islamist are not necessarily accurate and can be used as a slur.
Statements from the Transitional Period Evaluation Workshop 20-24 July:
-The significance of the present moment in a pioneering revolution that drove peaceful unarmed people facing a vicious inhumane killing machine, people that have the will and desire to achieve freedom & democracy;
-During the Transitional Period mistakes were committed, some the responsibility of FFC. It must acknowledge its mistakes, apologise and put in place mechanisms that ensure the mistakes are not repeated…specifically it did not consider security-military reform as a top priority and accepted the Military Council’s control;
-Lack of media and communicating with the public/street created an environment for disinformation campaigns led by anti-revolutionary forces to demonise the transitional period, driving a wedge between components of the revolution;
-Focusing mainly on Khartoum excluded the States that initiated the spark of the revolution and rendered them out of pace with the expected progress in the Transitional Government;
–The necessity of firmly defining the transition as a political task requires those who lead have a commitment to the revolution and civil democratic transition;
-Military and security reform requires disempowering them, transforming them from partisan to nationalist institutions; -Building consensuts defining gender, region/sector, age diversity to ensure justice in representation;
-Economic policy based on social democracy that favours the poor, workers and producers, promotion of cooperatives while ensuring competitiveness, freedom of initiative, innovation, strengthening partnerships between private & public sectors.
-Peace with SPLA El-Hilu and SLM El-Nur; -Priority to pursuit of funds smuggled abroad in Malaysia, UAE, Turkey and European countries. Sudan Tribune
The Troika (Norway, US, UK) welcomed reaffirmation by civilian and military to a civilian-led government leading a transition to democracy. Immediate reactions were negative: Such statements give the impression that you haven’t understood the issue in depth, or only see your wishes and seek easy solutions. Who kills young people every day if they demonstrate for civilian-led rule? Wake up and face the reality please, a young man tweeted. We say military to their barracks, Janjaweed and militias dismantled. Strange they want to give them a role in the shaping of our future, why? another asked. A 3rd called for sanctions: Put adequate pressure on corrupt generals and they will withdraw: sanctions and boycotts, otherwise such statements will encourage them to cling to power. A 4th, Vital question: Please, what is the definition of the term repeated in your various statements, ‘civilian led government’? Because this can be very misleading. In other words, a civilian-led government can simply be controlled by military dictators. Many activists lost confidence in political opposition parties and put their faith solely in Resistance Comm: Mr Volker, the only party you need to talk to right now is the Resistance Comm, the youth of Sudan, and nobody else, a young woman tweeted. They are the ones tortured and killed by military leaders. They are the future and the ones who know what is best for Sudan. Dabanga
August 2
Demonstrators sustained injuries during Sun’s marches called by Khartoum Resistance Comm and FFC-Central Council under the slogan peaceful coexistence. One protester was hit by birdshot pellets, 2 by rubber bullets; 11 run over by vehicles of Security Forces; 56 cases of tear gas canisters injuring eyes, heads and other parts of the body. There were cases of protesters severely beaten by security services with batons, causing multiple fractures and serious injuries. Socialist Doctors Assoc condemned the excessive violence, confirmed government forces used tear gas, stun grenades and ran them over with vehicles. Emergency Lawyers reported widespread violence and detentions among activists and protesters, including minors. Esam Hamed told Radio Dabanga government forces in armoured vehicles used not only tear gas but water mixed with chemicals to disperse the crowds. Security Forces launched a massive detention campaign in neighbourhoods south of city centres in Khartoum and Omdurman; these include 3 young women and 4 minors; 4 were wounded during detention and had to be treated by medics. A campaign was launched to expose human rights violations by the military against pro-democracy protests. Emergency Lawyers, CCDS and Consultants & Specialists Comm announced a comprehensive campaign to expose human rights violations by the military against pro-democracy protests. Human rights defenders, medical doctors and media professionals agreed to work together to expose violations following the coup. The campaign will present reports about the number of protesters killed, methods of targeting protesters and types of weapons used, to contribute to a fair investigation…local, regional and international human rights organisations will join to support protesters and others against the practices of the putschists, call for an immediate halt to the killing and stop the use of live ammunition and all kinds of weapons used against peaceful revolutionaries. Dabanga Hemedti said in an interview with BBC: measures taken by the military component have completely failed…current economic and security conditions are worse than before…he does not mind integrating his forces into a national and professional army. Al Taghyeer
Mainstream FFC-CC draft constitutional charter. After repeated criticism, they stressed rejection of any agreement with the military and expressed desire to consult with Resistance Committees. Wajdi Saleh: FFC-CC will not act on our own, but in agreement with forces of the revolution…the junta must completely stay away from political work. 12 political and activist groups including the Communist Party, Sudanese Professionals Assoc and Sudanese Women’s Union formed the Alliance of Forces for Radical Change. This does not include FCC…a result of their sympathy towards a power-sharing government with the military. FFC-CC reasserted its desire to work with Resistance Committees but it is not clear if the charters issued by Wad Madani and Khartoum will be taken into consideration. Resistance Committees are working on unifying both charters to create a common stance.
August 1, 2022
Russia is plundering gold to boost Putin’s war effort with complicity of Sudanese military rulers. Sudanese called for marches of the millions to protest against Russia’s looting. Sudan is the 3rd largest producer of precious metals in Africa. Days after Moscow launched its bloody war a Russian cargo plane stood on a Khartoum runway. Hidden were wooden crates of Sudan’s most precious resource – gold. Roughly 1 ton. This is one of 16 Russian gold smuggling flights in the past year and a half. Russia colluded with Sudan’s military enabling billions of dollars in gold to bypass the Sudanese State and deprive the poverty-stricken country of hundreds of millions in revenue. In exchange for easy access to gold, Russia lent powerful backing to Sudan’s military junta. US official: We’ve long known Russia is exploiting Sudan’s natural resources. In order to maintain access to those resources Russia encouraged the military coup. Russia actively supported the Oct coup. CNN portrays an intricate gold smuggling network. Flights intercepted by officials last year were operated by a military plane to and from Syria where Russia has a major airbase. Darfur Bar Assoc confirmed the presence of Wagner mercenaries…specifically accused of attacks on artisanal gold miners. Magdi El Gizouli: Hemeti’s visit to Russia was arranged by Russian mercenaries to find a way out for their ally in Sudan, and ensure his continuation in power so they can continue to plunder the country’s resources. Armed Forces and RSF hugely benefit from Sudan’s gold exports…RSF long associated with control of gold mining in Darfur built up a vast business empire that captures a large part of the gold industry. Global Witness report 2019 about financial networks behind RSF: Several local networks whose work CNN has drawn on…have been targeted, driven into exile under threat of assassination. Officials repeatedly urged CNN’s Nima Elbagir to steer clear of protest sites. Elbagir has been put on the junta’s hit list: this investigation was 7 months in the making; what was most shocking to us is the extent of Russia’s subversion of the Sudanese State, it’s entrenching of Sudan’s Generals at the expense of the hopes for Democracy…While the US watch on. The current amount of gold for export is unprecedentedly high as the company procured more gold in 10 days than is usually exported in 1 year. Sudan contributes 90 tonnes of gold to the global market per year, 10th largest gold producer in the world. The production is often driven by unregulated, individual subsistence mining, and routine smuggling across international borders is a constant problem. 50-80% smuggled out of the country…proceeds used to finance internal conflict. Dabanga