Sudan committed to peace, democracy, freedom, says prime minister

KHARTOUM

Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok announced on Thursday his adherence to peace, democracy, freedom, peace, and justice.

Hamdok said on Facebook: "Long live the glorious October memory, inspiring generations, and reminding them, generation after generation, of what the martyrs and their revolutionary companions came out for, in every revolution in our country."

On Oct. 21, 1964, a revolution broke out that overthrew the regime of the late Sudanese President Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Abboud.

"Every October, we are more committed to peace, democracy, freedom, peace, and justice," he added.

Hamdok’s speech came ahead of protests expected on Thursday to demand civilian rule, end the partnership with the military in the transitional authority, complete a peaceful democratic transition, and reject the calls of the National Charter movement and the military component in the authority to dissolve the government and form another.

Meanwhile, pro-army Sudanese protesters continue to stage a sit-in in the capital Khartoum, demanding government dissolution.

The sit-in led by the National Charter movement has been underway for one week in front of the presidential palace and it was extended on Thursday to take place in front of the parliament as well.

Sudan is ruled by a civilian government and a Sovereign Council that comprises 14 members, including five military representatives from the army, six civilians from the Forces for Freedom and Change coalition, and three members added in February to represent armed groups after a peace deal was signed with the government in October 2020.

For weeks, tensions have escalated between the military and civilian components of the transitional authority in Sudan as the former criticized the latter following a foiled coup attempt on Sept. 21.

Meanwhile, demonstrations have shaken eastern Sudan since Sept. 17 in rejection of a peace deal with rebel groups, which the local Beja tribes say marginalizes their community.

Since Aug. 21, 2019, Sudan has been in a 53-month transitional period that will end with elections in early 2024.

*Writing by Mahmoud Barakat in Ankara