New US ambassador calls for democratic transition in Sudan

KHARTOUM, Sudan

New US Ambassador in Sudan John Godfrey on Thursday reiterated his country's support for the Sudanese people's desire to advance democratic transition under civilian leadership.

"It is time to establish a credible civilian government, which is an important step that will help Sudan emerge from political and economic crises and enhance cooperation with the United States,” Godfrey said in a video message posted by the US Embassy in Khartoum.

“I will work to achieve the aspirations of the Sudanese people to freedom, peace and justice,” he added.

The US envoy said Washington encourages all actors "to participate in a comprehensive dialogue to establish a new civilian government and restore democratic transition."

On Wednesday, the US Embassy said Godfrey, first US ambassador to Sudan in nearly 25 years, has assumed his duties.

In November 2021, the US administration of President Joe Biden announced the appointment of Godfrey as ambassador to Khartoum.

Sudan has been in turmoil since last October, when the military dismissed Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok’s transitional government, a move decried by political forces as a "military coup."

*Ikram Imane Kouachi contributed to this report