Sudan: Protests resume despite deadly violence

The protests in Sudan against the military rulers continue – even after the death of seven demonstrators. Hundreds of people set up barricades in the capital, Khartoum, and security forces responded with tear gas.

In Sudan, numerous people have once again protested against the participation of the military in the government. Various parties and resistance organizations had called for a two-day strike and civil disobedience. The demonstrators set up burning barricades and blocked streets with stones, and security forces used tear gas.

At least seven people were killed in protests in Khartoum on Monday. According to an opposition medical committee, the security forces shot the demonstrators with live ammunition. The Sudanese authorities have repeatedly denied that live ammunition was used in the protests, which have been going on for months.

Protests are directed against a military coup

The protests are directed against the military takeover on October 25 last year. At the time, Sudan’s top general, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, had declared a state of emergency and dismissed the so-called transitional council. After a long hesitation, the military and civilian forces came together to lead the country to democratic elections after the fall of long-term Islamist ruler Omar al-Bashir. At least 71 people have been killed in protests since the coup.

EU condemns violence in Sudan

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell condemned the violence against the demonstrators in Sudan. He said his appeals to the Sudanese authorities to refrain from violence fell on deaf ears. With the crackdown and violence against civilians, activists and journalists, Sudan has embarked on a dangerous path away from peace and stability.

Borrell appealed to the military authorities to de-escalate the tensions. It is important to prevent further loss of life. The actions of the military rulers in Sudan are jeopardizing the efforts of the United Nations to resolve the crisis peacefully