What started as just gunfire in the capital and a town north of the country, eventually ended up being a disaster. death toll and injuries kept rising in the days that followed. What's behind the violence in Sudan?

Fighting rages in Sudan | World Of Africa

Sudan is on the boil. 100 people have lost their lives as deadly clashes continue between the army and paramiliary forces. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Sudan's deadly clashes continue for third day

In Sudan, combat between the army and paramilitaries has resulted in at least 1,800 injuries and 200 fatalities. Aid attempts over the weekend have been hindered as a result of hospitals being damaged in the urban warfare.

Sudan: US diplomatic convoy attacked; fears of regional spillover

Sudanese army pounded paramilitary bases with air strikes on Sunday (April 16) as the power struggle continues to rage in the North African nation, news agency Reuters reported citing witnesses. Sudan's army appeared to have gained the upper hand. The latest report stated that the death toll climbed to 97, including UN workers.&nbsp;

The deadly clashes between the army and the main paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) escalated in the past few days, with the fighting erupting on Saturday.&nbsp;

The army units loyal to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of Sudan's transitional governing Sovereign Council clashed with RSF, which is led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, who is deputy head of the council.&nbsp;

The UN mission in Sudan said Burhan and Hemedti agreed to a three-hour pause in fighting in order to allow humanitarian evacuations proposed by the United Nations.&nbsp;

The fighting was expected to de-escalate, but the deal was widely ignored by both sides after a brief period of relative calm.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-whats-happening-in-sudan-what-caused-the-clashes-583043">Explained: What's happening in Sudan? What caused the army-paramilitary clashes?</a>&nbsp;

The news agency cited residents, who reported the boom of artillery and roar of warplanes in the Kafouri district of Bahri, which has an RSF base.&nbsp;

Eyewitnesses also told the news agency that the army was renewing air strikes on RSF bases in Omdurman, the Kafouri and Sharg El-Nil districts of adjacent Bahri.&nbsp;

Rising tensions over the RSF's incorporation into the military were the cause of the fighting. The signature of an international agreement with political parties on a transition to democracy following a military coup in 2021 has been postponed due to disagreement on the timeline for that.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-army-and-rsf-clashes-leave-27-dead-including-3-un-staffers-dozens-injured-582861">Sudan unrest: World Food Programme suspends work following death of 3 staff members</a>&nbsp;

The clashes drew global condemnation as the United States, China, Russia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Nations, European Union and African Union appealed for an immediate end to the hostilities.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken consulted with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and declared on Saturday that all parties involved in the conflict in Sudan must immediately and unconditionally halt hostilities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Sudanese army pounded paramilitary bases with air strikes on Sunday (April 16) as the power struggle continues to rage in the North African nation, news agency Reuters reported citing witnesses.

Sudanese army pounded paramilitary bases with air strikes on Sunday (April 16) as the power struggle continues to rage in the North African nation, news agency Reuters reported citing witnesses. Sudan's army appeared to have gained the upper hand. The latest report stated that the death toll climbed to 97, including UN workers. The deadly clashes between the army and the main paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) escalated in the past few days, with the fighting erupting on Saturday. The army units loyal to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of Sudan's transitional governing Sovereign Council clashed with RSF, which is led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, who is deputy head of the council. The UN mission in Sudan said Burhan and Hemedti agreed to a three-hour pause in fighting in order to allow humanitarian evacuations proposed by the United Nations. The fighting was expected to de-escalate, but the deal was widely ignored by both sides after a brief period of relative calm. ALSO READ | Explained: What's happening in Sudan? What caused the army-paramilitary clashes? The news agency cited residents, who reported the boom of artillery and roar of warplanes in the Kafouri district of Bahri, which has an RSF base. Eyewitnesses also told the news agency that the army was renewing air strikes on RSF bases in Omdurman, the Kafouri and Sharg El-Nil districts of adjacent Bahri. Rising tensions over the RSF's incorporation into the military were the cause of the fighting. The signature of an international agreement with political parties on a transition to democracy following a military coup in 2021 has been postponed due to disagreement on the timeline for that. ALSO READ | Sudan unrest: World Food Programme suspends work following death of 3 staff members The clashes drew global condemnation as the United States, China, Russia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Nations, European Union and African Union appealed for an immediate end to the hostilities. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken consulted with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and declared on Saturday that all parties involved in the conflict in Sudan must immediately and unconditionally halt hostilities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Power struggle in Sudan rages as army pounds paramilitary bases with air strikes

Death toll in the clashes between the Sudanese military and its paramilitary forces rose on Sunday. At least 56 civilians are reported to have been dead along with tens of fights. About 600 are injured.&nbsp;Meanwhile, a train with hazardous items onboard derailed and caught fire Saturday in US state of Maine. Authorities cited track washout as the reason behind the incident.

In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an Easter service conducted by the Orthodox Church of the nation, which has lent its full support to the Ukraine war.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-army-and-rsf-clashes-leave-27-dead-including-3-un-staffers-dozens-injured-582861">Sudan: Army and RSF clashes leave 56 civilians, dozens of fighters dead</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/16/345624-untitled-design-33.png?imwidth=1920" />

Amid a power struggle, the fatal clashes between the military led by army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary resulted in the killing of at least 56 civilians, while injuring 595 others.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-train-carrying-hazardous-material-derails-in-maine-due-to-track-washout-582858">US: Train carrying hazardous material derails in Maine due to track washout</a> 
<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/16/345622-untitled-design-32.png?imwidth=1920" />

A train carrying hazardous items derailed and caught fire Saturday in a village in the northern US state of Maine, officials said adding it may have been caused due to track washout.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-vladimir-putin-attends-midnight-orthodox-easter-service-in-moscow-582862">Russia's Vladimir Putin attends midnight Orthodox Easter service in Moscow</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/16/345623-vladimir-putin-5.png?imwidth=1920" />

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an Easter service conducted by the Orthodox Church of the nation on Sunday (April 16). TASS reported that both exchanged Easter gifts during the holiday service.&nbsp;

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Death toll in the clashes between the Sudanese military and its paramilitary forces rose on Sunday. At least 56 civilians are reported to have been dead along with tens of fights.

Death toll in the clashes between the Sudanese military and its paramilitary forces rose on Sunday. At least 56 civilians are reported to have been dead along with tens of fights. About 600 are injured. Meanwhile, a train with hazardous items onboard derailed and caught fire Saturday in US state of Maine. Authorities cited track washout as the reason behind the incident. In other news, Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an Easter service conducted by the Orthodox Church of the nation, which has lent its full support to the Ukraine war. Click on the headlines to read more: Sudan: Army and RSF clashes leave 56 civilians, dozens of fighters dead Amid a power struggle, the fatal clashes between the military led by army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary resulted in the killing of at least 56 civilians, while injuring 595 others. US: Train carrying hazardous material derails in Maine due to track washout A train carrying hazardous items derailed and caught fire Saturday in a village in the northern US state of Maine, officials said adding it may have been caused due to track washout. Russia's Vladimir Putin attends midnight Orthodox Easter service in Moscow Russian President Vladimir Putin attended an Easter service conducted by the Orthodox Church of the nation on Sunday (April 16). TASS reported that both exchanged Easter gifts during the holiday service. Watch | What is next in Syrian Civil War?; The rapid development of AI | This World × Watch | Auto-GPT: The new tool that gives you a peek into the AI future | This World ×

Morning news brief: Death toll in Sudan clashes rises, train derails in Maine, and more

In Sudan, the clashes between the army and the main paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have escalated and left dozens of people dead, including civilians during an apparent struggle for control. According to the reports citing pro-democracy medics, the death toll increased to 56 on Sunday (April 16). The Central Committee of Sudan Doctors said that "the total number of deaths among civilians reached 56" and it also said that there were "tens of deaths" among security forces but they were not included in that death toll.&nbsp;

<h2>What's happening in Sudan?&nbsp;</h2>

Witnesses said that deafening explosions and intense gunfire rattled buildings in the capital Khartoum's densely-populated northern and southern suburbs as tanks were seen on the streets and fighter jets roared overhead.&nbsp;

As quoted by the news agency Reuters, an eyewitness described the violence in Kharkoum as sounding like a "thunderstorm". American tourist Lakshmi Parthasarathy told the news agency: "We woke up and went outside, there were fighter jets. There's just a lot of chaos going on. There was smoke everywhere."&nbsp;

Reuters report mentioned that Parthasarathy shot drone footage, which showed black smoke emerging from an area near Khartoum International Airport. Local reports and agencies also stated that a Saudi Arabian Airlines plane came under fire at the airport during the clashes.&nbsp;

The 32-year-old software engineer and part-time video creator, said: "I don't think anyone expected this to happen. I felt... you know, it's nerve-wracking."&nbsp;

<h2>What triggered the clashes?&nbsp;</h2>

The Sudanese army and the RSF were jointly running the country since October 2021 after deposing President Omar al-Bashir. They banded together a Sovereign Council, led by Army Chief General Abdel al-Burhan and co-led by RSF Chief General Mohamed Hamdan.&nbsp;

The Sudanese army proposed RSF's integration into itself within a timeline of two years, a move RSF wanted to delay for ten years. The army also supports the transfer of power to a civilian government, another point of contention between the two erstwhile Sovereign Council members.

The RSF chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo claims to have seized most of the official sites in the capital Khartoum.

The RSF&nbsp;led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (known as Hemedti), and army soldiers loyal to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan engaged in combat for the first time on Saturday.

According to witnesses,&nbsp;the army reportedly struck a facility in Omdurman, a city that borders the capital Khartoum, after a day of intense battle. Important facilities in Khartoum, like the airport, where fighting raged overnight, were claimed by both the military and the RSF. Meanwhile, to establish a transitional government after a military coup in 2021, political factions are negotiating with the RSF and the military, who are vying for control.&nbsp;

The fighting broke out due to escalating tensions over the RSF's enlistment in the military. The signing of a deal with political parties on a democratic transition that is backed by the international community has been delayed because of the debate over the timeline for it.&nbsp;

The clashes coincided with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. As Sudan battles economic collapse and ethnic strife, a protracted conflict might disrupt efforts to advance towards elections and spark widespread unrest.&nbsp;

<h2>Internet services blocked, power outage&nbsp;</h2>

Reuters report mentioned that two company insiders said that the government telecommunications regulator ordered Sudan's MTN telecommunications provider to ban internet access nationwide.&nbsp;

Huda, a young resident in southern Khartoum, told Reuters: "We're scared, we haven't slept for 24 hours because of the noise and the house shaking. We're worried about running out of water and food, and medicine for my diabetic father." She added, "There's so much false information and everyone is lying. We don't know when this will end, how it will end." &nbsp;

Tagreed Abdin, an architect living in Khartoum, told the news agency that there was a power outage and people were trying to conserve phone batteries. She said: "We can hear air strikes, shelling, and gunfire."&nbsp;

<h2>What did the army say?&nbsp;</h2>

The army said in a statement on Sunday that "the hour of victory is near". The statement read: "We pray for mercy for the innocent lives taken by this reckless adventure taken by the rebel Rapid Support militia... We will have good news for our patient and proud people soon, God willing."&nbsp;

<h2>International condemnation</h2>

The clashes drew global condemnation as the United States, China, Russia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Nations, European Union and African Union appealed for an immediate end to the hostilities.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken consulted with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and declared on Saturday that all parties involved in the conflict in Sudan must immediately and unconditionally halt hostilities.&nbsp;

The Saudi state news agency reported that after a phone call, the Saudi, US and UAE foreign ministers called for a return to the framework agreement on the transition to democracy.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the armed forces said it would not negotiate with the RSF unless the force dissolved.&nbsp;

<h2>Indian national dies in Khartoum&nbsp;</h2>

An Indian national named Albert Augestine succumbed to stray&nbsp;bullet injury, the Indian embassy in Sudan tweeted. Augestine was struck by a stray bullet on Saturday while working for the Dal Group Corporation in the African nation.&nbsp;

The embassy&nbsp;tweeted: "It has been reported that Mr Albert Augestine, an Indian National working in a Dal Group Company in Sudan who got hit by a stray bullet yesterday succumbed to his injuries. The embassy is in touch with family and medical authorities to make further arrangements."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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In Sudan, the clashes between the army and the main paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have escalated and left dozens of people dead, including civilians during an apparent struggle for control.

In Sudan, the clashes between the army and the main paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have escalated and left dozens of people dead, including civilians during an apparent struggle for control. According to the reports citing pro-democracy medics, the death toll increased to 56 on Sunday (April 16). The Central Committee of Sudan Doctors said that "the total number of deaths among civilians reached 56" and it also said that there were "tens of deaths" among security forces but they were not included in that death toll. What's happening in Sudan? Witnesses said that deafening explosions and intense gunfire rattled buildings in the capital Khartoum's densely-populated northern and southern suburbs as tanks were seen on the streets and fighter jets roared overhead. As quoted by the news agency Reuters, an eyewitness described the violence in Kharkoum as sounding like a "thunderstorm". American tourist Lakshmi Parthasarathy told the news agency: "We woke up and went outside, there were fighter jets. There's just a lot of chaos going on. There was smoke everywhere." Reuters report mentioned that Parthasarathy shot drone footage, which showed black smoke emerging from an area near Khartoum International Airport. Local reports and agencies also stated that a Saudi Arabian Airlines plane came under fire at the airport during the clashes. The 32-year-old software engineer and part-time video creator, said: "I don't think anyone expected this to happen. I felt... you know, it's nerve-wracking." What triggered the clashes? The Sudanese army and the RSF were jointly running the country since October 2021 after deposing President Omar al-Bashir. They banded together a Sovereign Council, led by Army Chief General Abdel al-Burhan and co-led by RSF Chief General Mohamed Hamdan. The Sudanese army proposed RSF's integration into itself within a timeline of two years, a move RSF wanted to delay for ten years. The army also supports the transfer of power to a civilian government, another point of contention between the two erstwhile Sovereign Council members. The RSF chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo claims to have seized most of the official sites in the capital Khartoum. The RSF led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (known as Hemedti), and army soldiers loyal to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan engaged in combat for the first time on Saturday. According to witnesses, the army reportedly struck a facility in Omdurman, a city that borders the capital Khartoum, after a day of intense battle. Important facilities in Khartoum, like the airport, where fighting raged overnight, were claimed by both the military and the RSF. Meanwhile, to establish a transitional government after a military coup in 2021, political factions are negotiating with the RSF and the military, who are vying for control. The fighting broke out due to escalating tensions over the RSF's enlistment in the military. The signing of a deal with political parties on a democratic transition that is backed by the international community has been delayed because of the debate over the timeline for it. The clashes coincided with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. As Sudan battles economic collapse and ethnic strife, a protracted conflict might disrupt efforts to advance towards elections and spark widespread unrest. Internet services blocked, power outage Reuters report mentioned that two company insiders said that the government telecommunications regulator ordered Sudan's MTN telecommunications provider to ban internet access nationwide. Huda, a young resident in southern Khartoum, told Reuters: "We're scared, we haven't slept for 24 hours because of the noise and the house shaking. We're worried about running out of water and food, and medicine for my diabetic father." She added, "There's so much false information and everyone is lying. We don't know when this will end, how it will end." Tagreed Abdin, an architect living in Khartoum, told the news agency that there was a power outage and people were trying to conserve phone batteries. She said: "We can hear air strikes, shelling, and gunfire." What did the army say? The army said in a statement on Sunday that "the hour of victory is near". The statement read: "We pray for mercy for the innocent lives taken by this reckless adventure taken by the rebel Rapid Support militia... We will have good news for our patient and proud people soon, God willing." International condemnation The clashes drew global condemnation as the United States, China, Russia, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Nations, European Union and African Union appealed for an immediate end to the hostilities. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken consulted with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and declared on Saturday that all parties involved in the conflict in Sudan must immediately and unconditionally halt hostilities. The Saudi state news agency reported that after a phone call, the Saudi, US and UAE foreign ministers called for a return to the framework agreement on the transition to democracy. Meanwhile, the armed forces said it would not negotiate with the RSF unless the force dissolved. Indian national dies in Khartoum An Indian national named Albert Augestine succumbed to stray bullet injury, the Indian embassy in Sudan tweeted. Augestine was struck by a stray bullet on Saturday while working for the Dal Group Corporation in the African nation. The embassy tweeted: "It has been reported that Mr Albert Augestine, an Indian National working in a Dal Group Company in Sudan who got hit by a stray bullet yesterday succumbed to his injuries. The embassy is in touch with family and medical authorities to make further arrangements." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: What's happening in Sudan? What caused the army-paramilitary clashes?

At least 11 people have been killed in ongoing clashes between Arab and non-Arab groups in Sudan's Darfur.&nbsp;The clashes began on&nbsp;Wednesday between Arab herders and the Daju minority and other non-Arab groups, AFP reported.&nbsp;A doctor said, "The number of bodies that have arrived at the hospital has reached 11." He added that some 20 people have been injured.&nbsp; 
 
Adam Regal from General Coordination for Refugees and Displaced said the death toll might be much higher as the fighting is going on.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-71-year-old-south-sudanese-prez-kiir-fit-to-rule-the-country-after-he-wets-himself-netizens-raise-concerns-545645">Also read |&nbsp;Is South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, 71, fit to rule? Netizens react after he wets himself</a>

According to news agency SUNA, the fight erupted after a group of herders riding camels attacked Amuri village on Friday. It added that the fight claimed the lives of four people.&nbsp;

The news agency also claimed that three people died, two prior to the attack and one after the fight spread to nearby villages.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15-killed-in-sudans-blue-nile-ethnic-clashes-medics-527035">Also read |&nbsp;15 killed in ethnic clashes in Sudan's troubled southern&nbsp;Blue&nbsp;Nile&nbsp;state: Medics</a>

Witnesses have said that hundreds of people are protesting against the violence outside a government building in Nyala.&nbsp;

As per reports, clashes often erupt in Sudan's Darfur.&nbsp;This year some 900 people have been killed and 300,000 have fled their homes because of the clashes in the country, according to the UN's Humanitarian Affairs report.

UN figures claim that some 300,000 people have been killed in the clashes and 2.5 million people displaced.&nbsp; 
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At least 11 people have been killed in ongoing clashes between Arab and non-Arab groups in Sudan's Darfur. The clashes began on Wednesday between Arab herders and the Daju minority and other non-Arab groups, AFP reported.

At least 11 people have been killed in ongoing clashes between Arab and non-Arab groups in Sudan's Darfur. The clashes began on Wednesday between Arab herders and the Daju minority and other non-Arab groups, AFP reported. A doctor said, "The number of bodies that have arrived at the hospital has reached 11." He added that some 20 people have been injured. Adam Regal from General Coordination for Refugees and Displaced said the death toll might be much higher as the fighting is going on. Also read | Is South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, 71, fit to rule? Netizens react after he wets himself According to news agency SUNA, the fight erupted after a group of herders riding camels attacked Amuri village on Friday. It added that the fight claimed the lives of four people. The news agency also claimed that three people died, two prior to the attack and one after the fight spread to nearby villages. Also read | 15 killed in ethnic clashes in Sudan's troubled southern Blue Nile state: Medics Witnesses have said that hundreds of people are protesting against the violence outside a government building in Nyala. As per reports, clashes often erupt in Sudan's Darfur. This year some 900 people have been killed and 300,000 have fled their homes because of the clashes in the country, according to the UN's Humanitarian Affairs report. UN figures claim that some 300,000 people have been killed in the clashes and 2.5 million people displaced. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

11 killed, 20 injured as clashes erupt between Arab and non-Arab groups in Sudan's Darfur

At least&nbsp;15&nbsp;people have been&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in the latest outbreak of&nbsp;ethnic&nbsp;clashes&nbsp;after land disputes in&nbsp;Sudan's southern&nbsp;Blue&nbsp;Nile&nbsp;state, local leaders and medical sources said Wednesday.

Fighting broke out last week after reported arguments over land between members of the Hausa people and rival groups in Wad al-Mahi, near Roseires in&nbsp;Sudan's troubled southern region, some 500 kilometres (310 miles) south of the capital Khartoum.

On Wednesday, fresh fighting erupted, with residents reporting intense gunfire and homes being torched.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/poverty-and-turmoil-south-sudans-post-independence-history-503770">Also read |&nbsp;Poverty and turmoil: South Sudan's post-independence history</a>

"There was heavy shooting, and houses were burnt down," one local resident said, asking not to be named.

A medic at the Wad al-Mahi clinic, who asked not to be named, said they had "received 10 bodies", while another worker at the hospital in the city of Roseires said the facility received "five bodies and 10 wounded."

Clashes&nbsp;took place despite a heavy deployment of security forces in the area, as well as an overnight curfew, a Hausa leader said.

Last week,&nbsp;clashes&nbsp;in the same area sparked by "a dispute over land issues" left at least 13 people dead and 24 injured, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

Fighting between the Hausa people and other groups first broke out in July,&nbsp;with some 149 dead and 124 wounded up until early October, according to a toll reported by OCHA.

Some 65,000 people have been forced to flee their homes, the UN said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-court-sentences-woman-to-death-by-stoning-in-first-case-for-a-decade-496992">Also read | Sudanese court sentences woman to death by stoning in first case for a decade</a>

The July&nbsp;clashes&nbsp;erupted after Hausa members requested the creation of a "civil authority", that rival groups saw as a means of gaining access to land.

The&nbsp;clashes&nbsp;also triggered angry protests across&nbsp;Sudan, with the Hausa people demanding justice for those&nbsp;killed.

By late July, senior leaders agreed to cease hostilities.&nbsp;Despite the deal,&nbsp;clashes&nbsp;broke out again in September.

Sudan&nbsp;is grappling with deepening political unrest and a spiralling economic crisis since last year's military coup, led by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.&nbsp;

The military power grab upended a transition to civilian rule launched after the 2019 ouster of strongman Omar al-Bashir, who ruled for three decades.

At least 15 people have been killed in the latest outbreak of ethnic clashes after land disputes in Sudan's southern Blue Nile state, local leaders and medical sources said Wednesday.

At least 15 people have been killed in the latest outbreak of ethnic clashes after land disputes in Sudan's southern Blue Nile state, local leaders and medical sources said Wednesday. Fighting broke out last week after reported arguments over land between members of the Hausa people and rival groups in Wad al-Mahi, near Roseires in Sudan's troubled southern region, some 500 kilometres (310 miles) south of the capital Khartoum. On Wednesday, fresh fighting erupted, with residents reporting intense gunfire and homes being torched. Also read | Poverty and turmoil: South Sudan's post-independence history "There was heavy shooting, and houses were burnt down," one local resident said, asking not to be named. A medic at the Wad al-Mahi clinic, who asked not to be named, said they had "received 10 bodies", while another worker at the hospital in the city of Roseires said the facility received "five bodies and 10 wounded." Clashes took place despite a heavy deployment of security forces in the area, as well as an overnight curfew, a Hausa leader said. Last week, clashes in the same area sparked by "a dispute over land issues" left at least 13 people dead and 24 injured, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Fighting between the Hausa people and other groups first broke out in July, with some 149 dead and 124 wounded up until early October, according to a toll reported by OCHA. Some 65,000 people have been forced to flee their homes, the UN said. Also read | Sudanese court sentences woman to death by stoning in first case for a decade The July clashes erupted after Hausa members requested the creation of a "civil authority", that rival groups saw as a means of gaining access to land. The clashes also triggered angry protests across Sudan, with the Hausa people demanding justice for those killed. By late July, senior leaders agreed to cease hostilities. Despite the deal, clashes broke out again in September. Sudan is grappling with deepening political unrest and a spiralling economic crisis since last year's military coup, led by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. The military power grab upended a transition to civilian rule launched after the 2019 ouster of strongman Omar al-Bashir, who ruled for three decades.

15 killed in ethnic clashes in Sudan's troubled southern Blue Nile state: Medics

Residents in Sudan claimed heavy fighting in west and south territories has reportedly killed 27 people and injured dozens. The country is still dealing with consequences from a coup orchestrated by army head Abdel Fattah al-Burhan in October of last year, reported by AFP.

Despite the fact that main rebel groups signed a peace agreement for the year 2020, still deadly conflicts continue over land, water access and livestock.&nbsp;

Similar instances occurred in the restive Darfur region, where 16 people were killed in a heated land dispute and 11 killed in South Kordofan state after an argument between two individuals apparently developed into gun battles.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-man-killed-in-crackdown-on-anti-coup-protests-as-un-expert-arrives-454954">Sudanese man killed in crackdown on anti-coup protests as UN expert arrives</a>

UN special representative Volker Perthes on Tuesday (June 7) said, "I am deeply concerned about inter-communal clashes.” He further added, “I call on security forces to secure the area and ensure the protection of civilians, and urge local leaders to undertake mediation efforts".

Another fighting instance broke out at Kolbus where villages were set on fire by the attackers and were completely destroyed.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Emergency lifted in Sudan: Decision after meeting with senior military officials

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A leader of the non-Arab Gimir group said, “Fighting erupted over a land dispute between member of an Arab tribe and a farmer from a non-Arab one.” He further added that the clashes killed eight people and burned three villages.&nbsp;

According to a leader of the Arab Rizeigat village said the fighting began over land dispute and that the clashes are still going on.&nbsp;

Another clash erupted between the Hawazma and Kenana groups, the Arab rivals in South Kordofan after a disagreement between two persons escalated into conflicts between the groups.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/failing-to-build-consensus-sudans-prime-minister-abdalla-hamdok-announces-resignation-441863">Failing to build consensus, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok announces resignation</a>

A resident said, “At least 11 people were killed and 35 wounded in fighting.”

With this going on, the country&nbsp;still struggle with resurgence of deadly conflicts, severe droughts and encroaching desertification.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)

Residents in Sudan claimed heavy fighting in west and south territories has reportedly killed 27 people and injured dozens. The country is still dealing with consequences from a coup orchestrated by army head Abdel Fattah al-Burhan in October of last year, reported by AFP.

Residents in Sudan claimed heavy fighting in west and south territories has reportedly killed 27 people and injured dozens. The country is still dealing with consequences from a coup orchestrated by army head Abdel Fattah al-Burhan in October of last year, reported by AFP. Despite the fact that main rebel groups signed a peace agreement for the year 2020, still deadly conflicts continue over land, water access and livestock. Similar instances occurred in the restive Darfur region, where 16 people were killed in a heated land dispute and 11 killed in South Kordofan state after an argument between two individuals apparently developed into gun battles. Also read | Sudanese man killed in crackdown on anti-coup protests as UN expert arrives UN special representative Volker Perthes on Tuesday (June 7) said, "I am deeply concerned about inter-communal clashes.” He further added, “I call on security forces to secure the area and ensure the protection of civilians, and urge local leaders to undertake mediation efforts". Another fighting instance broke out at Kolbus where villages were set on fire by the attackers and were completely destroyed. Watch | Emergency lifted in Sudan: Decision after meeting with senior military officials A leader of the non-Arab Gimir group said, “Fighting erupted over a land dispute between member of an Arab tribe and a farmer from a non-Arab one.” He further added that the clashes killed eight people and burned three villages. According to a leader of the Arab Rizeigat village said the fighting began over land dispute and that the clashes are still going on. Another clash erupted between the Hawazma and Kenana groups, the Arab rivals in South Kordofan after a disagreement between two persons escalated into conflicts between the groups. Also read | Failing to build consensus, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok announces resignation A resident said, “At least 11 people were killed and 35 wounded in fighting.” With this going on, the country still struggle with resurgence of deadly conflicts, severe droughts and encroaching desertification. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

Sudan clashes killed nearly 27 people, despite peace agreement signed in 2020

World Press Photo of the Year: Winner and finalists

Months of political and economic turmoil in Sudan has severely damaged the health of the lions faced with shortages of food and medicine. Lions, victims of the political upheaval in Sudan, are starving.&nbsp;

Last week, WION did a special report to show how weak and wasted, malnourished the king of the jungle looks in Sudan.&nbsp;

After the special coverage by Wion and some online campaigns, there's new hope for the big cats at Al-Qurashi park zoo in Khartoum.

The online campaign with the hashtag #sudananimalrescue , was launched by Sudanese activist Osman Salih.&nbsp;

The images of the feeble cats created a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/social-media-in-uproar-after-emaciated-african-lion-images-go-viral-275561">stir on social media</a>. Following which a global welfare organisation - Four Paws, arrived to assess the condition of the lions. However, it was too late for one of the lions who recently died due to dehydration and lack of food. 
 
WATCH:&nbsp;

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The animals lost as much as two-thirds of their body weight after going unfed for weeks as Sudan's chronic cash shortage hit donations. People abroad who tried to donate via crowdfunding sites were thwarted by us sanctions on Sudan.

The Four Paws team said they will have to find a long-term solution to improve the condition of the lions and also train the zoo staff.&nbsp;

African lions are classified as a 'vulnerable' species by the international union for conservation of nature which explains why Four Paws intends to visit other zoos in Khartoum as well.

Some locals concerned about the fate of the lions have been flocking to help, bringing food and medical items.&nbsp;

It seems that&nbsp;with international animal activists steeping in, the big cats have found a lifeline. 
&nbsp;

Months of political and economic turmoil in Sudan has severely damaged the health of the lions faced with shortages of food and medicine. Lions, victims of the political upheaval in Sudan, are starving.

Months of political and economic turmoil in Sudan has severely damaged the health of the lions faced with shortages of food and medicine. Lions, victims of the political upheaval in Sudan, are starving. Last week, WION did a special report to show how weak and wasted, malnourished the king of the jungle looks in Sudan. After the special coverage by Wion and some online campaigns, there's new hope for the big cats at Al-Qurashi park zoo in Khartoum. The online campaign with the hashtag #sudananimalrescue , was launched by Sudanese activist Osman Salih. The images of the feeble cats created a stir on social media. Following which a global welfare organisation - Four Paws, arrived to assess the condition of the lions. However, it was too late for one of the lions who recently died due to dehydration and lack of food. WATCH: × The animals lost as much as two-thirds of their body weight after going unfed for weeks as Sudan's chronic cash shortage hit donations. People abroad who tried to donate via crowdfunding sites were thwarted by us sanctions on Sudan. The Four Paws team said they will have to find a long-term solution to improve the condition of the lions and also train the zoo staff. African lions are classified as a 'vulnerable' species by the international union for conservation of nature which explains why Four Paws intends to visit other zoos in Khartoum as well. Some locals concerned about the fate of the lions have been flocking to help, bringing food and medical items. It seems that with international animal activists steeping in, the big cats have found a lifeline.

How social media saved Sudan's starving lions

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-sudans-economic-crisis-had-a-role-in-protests-that-toppled-al-bashir-216685">Sudan</a>'s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-paramilitaries-torture-civilian-to-death-doctors-236523">military</a> said on Wednesday that it has thwarted a coup attempt and arrested an unspecified number of senior officers in connection with the plot, state news agency SUNA said.

Watch: Sudan protesters take over square where Bashir held rallies

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The military "revealed a coup attempt involving General Hashim Abdel Mottalib Ahmed, head of the joint chiefs of staff, and a number of high-ranking officers from the armed forces and the National Intelligence and Security Service, along with leaders of the Islamic Movement and the National Congress Party", SUNA said.

"They have been detained and investigations with them are going on so that they can be tried."

"The failed coup attempt's goal was to abort the people's glorious revolution and to return the former National Congress regime to power, and to disrupt the path before the expected political solution that aims to establish a civilian state," SUNA cited the military as saying.

The attempted putsch happened as the military council and an alliance of protest and opposition groups work to finalise a power-sharing deal for a three-year transition towards elections, a process that has repeatedly stalled.

Sudan's military said on Wednesday that it has thwarted a coup attempt and arrested an unspecified number of senior officers in connection with the plot, state news agency SUNA said.

Sudan's military said on Wednesday that it has thwarted a coup attempt and arrested an unspecified number of senior officers in connection with the plot, state news agency SUNA said. Watch: Sudan protesters take over square where Bashir held rallies × The military "revealed a coup attempt involving General Hashim Abdel Mottalib Ahmed, head of the joint chiefs of staff, and a number of high-ranking officers from the armed forces and the National Intelligence and Security Service, along with leaders of the Islamic Movement and the National Congress Party", SUNA said. "They have been detained and investigations with them are going on so that they can be tried." "The failed coup attempt's goal was to abort the people's glorious revolution and to return the former National Congress regime to power, and to disrupt the path before the expected political solution that aims to establish a civilian state," SUNA cited the military as saying. The attempted putsch happened as the military council and an alliance of protest and opposition groups work to finalise a power-sharing deal for a three-year transition towards elections, a process that has repeatedly stalled.

Stopped coup attempt, arrested senior officers: Sudan military

Sudan's ex-president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ousted-sudan-president-omar-al-bashir-to-be-sent-for-trial-soon-prosecutor-says-227709">Omar al-Bashir</a> was charged with corruption-related offences on Sunday, as he appeared in public for the first time since he was overthrown and detained in April.

Looking much the same as prior to his removal by the military, he was driven to the prosecutor's office in Khartoum.

He was charged with illicit possession of foreign currency and accepting gifts in an unofficial manner, prosecutor Alaa al-Din Abdallah told media, adding that Bashir would be given the chance to respond to the accusations.

His trial will be a test of how serious the country's transitional military council is about trying to erase the legacy of his autocratic 30-year rule, marked by widespread violence, economic collapse and the secession of South Sudan.

Bashir was charged last month with incitement and involvement in the killing of protesters, and prosecutors also want him questioned over suspected money laundering and terrorism financing.

Sudan's chief prosecutor said on Saturday that 41 former officials from Bashir's administration were being investigated for suspected graft.

Political paralysis

The military overthrew and detained Bashir on April 11 after 16 weeks of street protests against his rule.

But despite his ouster, Sudan remains paralysed by a political standoff between a transitional military council and a coalition of protesters and opposition parties demanding a civilian-led administration during a planned transition to democracy.

Talks on a power-sharing deal have collapsed, and tensions soared on June 3 when security forces stormed a protest camp in Khartoum being maintained as a way to press military rulers to hand over power.

Protesters put the number of dead from the incursion at 128, and the health ministry at 61.

Military investigators on Saturday said that government officers of various ranks were found to have been responsible for the dispersal of the camp without approval.

Addressing supporters at the presidential palace, the deputy head of the military council said on Sunday it was ready to accept nominees for top government positions proposed by the coalition.

"We are actually not in dispute and we are partners in this glorious revolution," General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo said. "They say a technocratic government and we are ready".

Sudan's ex-president Omar al-Bashir was charged with corruption-related offences on Sunday, as he appeared in public for the first time since he was overthrown and detained in April.

Sudan's ex-president Omar al-Bashir was charged with corruption-related offences on Sunday, as he appeared in public for the first time since he was overthrown and detained in April. Looking much the same as prior to his removal by the military, he was driven to the prosecutor's office in Khartoum. He was charged with illicit possession of foreign currency and accepting gifts in an unofficial manner, prosecutor Alaa al-Din Abdallah told media, adding that Bashir would be given the chance to respond to the accusations. His trial will be a test of how serious the country's transitional military council is about trying to erase the legacy of his autocratic 30-year rule, marked by widespread violence, economic collapse and the secession of South Sudan. Bashir was charged last month with incitement and involvement in the killing of protesters, and prosecutors also want him questioned over suspected money laundering and terrorism financing. Sudan's chief prosecutor said on Saturday that 41 former officials from Bashir's administration were being investigated for suspected graft. Political paralysis The military overthrew and detained Bashir on April 11 after 16 weeks of street protests against his rule. But despite his ouster, Sudan remains paralysed by a political standoff between a transitional military council and a coalition of protesters and opposition parties demanding a civilian-led administration during a planned transition to democracy. Talks on a power-sharing deal have collapsed, and tensions soared on June 3 when security forces stormed a protest camp in Khartoum being maintained as a way to press military rulers to hand over power. Protesters put the number of dead from the incursion at 128, and the health ministry at 61. Military investigators on Saturday said that government officers of various ranks were found to have been responsible for the dispersal of the camp without approval. Addressing supporters at the presidential palace, the deputy head of the military council said on Sunday it was ready to accept nominees for top government positions proposed by the coalition. "We are actually not in dispute and we are partners in this glorious revolution," General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo said. "They say a technocratic government and we are ready".

Sudan's Bashir charged with corruption, in first appearance since April

Ousted Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir will appear in court next week to face charges of corruption and possessing foreign currency, the country's acting prosecutor general told reporters on Saturday.

The announcement came more than two months after the military overthrew Bashir on April 11 following months of nationwide protests against his 30-year iron-fisted rule.

Bashir "will appear in court next week following charges of corruption and possessing foreign currency," Al-Waleed Sayyed Ahmed said, without specifying the day.

He added that the investigation launched against Bashir for the charges had been completed.

On Thursday, an unnamed Sudanese official was quoted by the official SUNA news agency as saying Bashir was facing charges including "possessing foreign funds, acquiring suspected and illegal wealth and ordering (the state of) emergency".

In April, Sudan's army ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said that more than $113 million worth of cash in three currencies had been seized from Bashir's residence.

He said a team of police, army and security agents found seven million euros ($7.8 million), $350,000 and five billion Sudanese pounds ($105 million).&nbsp;

Bashir swept to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989.&nbsp;

Sudan suffered high rates of corruption during his rule, ranking 172 out of 180 countries in Transparency International's 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index.

Last month, Ahmed ordered Bashir questioned over money-laundering and "financing terrorism".

In an effort to quell protests that erupted against his rule in December, Bashir imposed a nationwide state of emergency on February 22.

In May, the prosecutor general said that Bashir had been charged over the killings of protesters during those anti-regime demonstrations, which eventually led to his ouster.

Ahmed also said on Saturday that 41 other charges against "symbols of the ousted regime" were under investigation.&nbsp;

He did not name the others accused but said most of the charges were related to the "possession of land".

Ousted Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir will appear in court next week to face charges of corruption and possessing foreign currency, the country's acting prosecutor general told reporters on Saturday.

Ousted Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir will appear in court next week to face charges of corruption and possessing foreign currency, the country's acting prosecutor general told reporters on Saturday. The announcement came more than two months after the military overthrew Bashir on April 11 following months of nationwide protests against his 30-year iron-fisted rule. Bashir "will appear in court next week following charges of corruption and possessing foreign currency," Al-Waleed Sayyed Ahmed said, without specifying the day. He added that the investigation launched against Bashir for the charges had been completed. On Thursday, an unnamed Sudanese official was quoted by the official SUNA news agency as saying Bashir was facing charges including "possessing foreign funds, acquiring suspected and illegal wealth and ordering (the state of) emergency". In April, Sudan's army ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said that more than $113 million worth of cash in three currencies had been seized from Bashir's residence. He said a team of police, army and security agents found seven million euros ($7.8 million), $350,000 and five billion Sudanese pounds ($105 million). Bashir swept to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989. Sudan suffered high rates of corruption during his rule, ranking 172 out of 180 countries in Transparency International's 2018 Corruption Perceptions Index. Last month, Ahmed ordered Bashir questioned over money-laundering and "financing terrorism". In an effort to quell protests that erupted against his rule in December, Bashir imposed a nationwide state of emergency on February 22. In May, the prosecutor general said that Bashir had been charged over the killings of protesters during those anti-regime demonstrations, which eventually led to his ouster. Ahmed also said on Saturday that 41 other charges against "symbols of the ousted regime" were under investigation. He did not name the others accused but said most of the charges were related to the "possession of land".

Sudan's Bashir to appear in court on graft charge: Prosecutor

Sudanese security forces have arrested two prominent rebels and an opposition leader, a day after they met the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-attempts-to-mediate-sudan-crisis-after-bloodshed-225425">Ethiopian premier during his reconciliation mission</a> to Khartoum, their aides said Saturday.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has emerged as a key regional leader, met representatives of both sides on Friday in a bid to revive talks between Sudan's ruling generals and protest leaders after a deadly crackdown left dozens of people dead in the capital this week.

Among the protest movement delegates he met were opposition politician Mohamed Esmat and a leader of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-important-to-bring-about-order-in-sudan-224994">rebel Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N)</a>, Ismail Jalab.

Sudanese security forces later arrested both men without giving any reason, their aides told AFP on Saturday.

Esmat was arrested on Friday soon after his meeting with Abiy.&nbsp;

Jalab was arrested from his residence early on Saturday.

"A group of armed men came in vehicles at 3:00 am (1:00 GMT) and took away Ismail Jalab .. without giving any reason," Jalab aide Rashid Anwar told AFP, adding that SPLM-N spokesman Mubarak Ardol was also detained.

"We don't know where they are being held," he added.

Esmat and Jalab are both leading members of the Alliance for Freedom and Change, which brings together opposition parties and rebel groups with the organisers of the mass protests which have gripped Sudan since December last year.

The arrest of Jalab comes just days after the SPLM-N's deputy leader, Yasir Arman, was seized from his home in Khartoum.

The rebel number two had only returned to Khartoum from exile late last month.

The SPLM-N has led uprisings among non-Arab ethnic minorities in Blue Nile and South Kordofan states since 2011, that Sudan's military rulers had vowed to end peacefully after their overthrow of longtime president Omar al-Bashir in April.

Sudanese security forces have arrested two prominent rebels and an opposition leader, a day after they met the Ethiopian premier during his reconciliation mission to Khartoum, their aides said Saturday.

Sudanese security forces have arrested two prominent rebels and an opposition leader, a day after they met the Ethiopian premier during his reconciliation mission to Khartoum, their aides said Saturday. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has emerged as a key regional leader, met representatives of both sides on Friday in a bid to revive talks between Sudan's ruling generals and protest leaders after a deadly crackdown left dozens of people dead in the capital this week. Among the protest movement delegates he met were opposition politician Mohamed Esmat and a leader of the rebel Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), Ismail Jalab. Sudanese security forces later arrested both men without giving any reason, their aides told AFP on Saturday. Esmat was arrested on Friday soon after his meeting with Abiy. Jalab was arrested from his residence early on Saturday. "A group of armed men came in vehicles at 3:00 am (1:00 GMT) and took away Ismail Jalab .. without giving any reason," Jalab aide Rashid Anwar told AFP, adding that SPLM-N spokesman Mubarak Ardol was also detained. "We don't know where they are being held," he added. Esmat and Jalab are both leading members of the Alliance for Freedom and Change, which brings together opposition parties and rebel groups with the organisers of the mass protests which have gripped Sudan since December last year. The arrest of Jalab comes just days after the SPLM-N's deputy leader, Yasir Arman, was seized from his home in Khartoum. The rebel number two had only returned to Khartoum from exile late last month. The SPLM-N has led uprisings among non-Arab ethnic minorities in Blue Nile and South Kordofan states since 2011, that Sudan's military rulers had vowed to end peacefully after their overthrow of longtime president Omar al-Bashir in April.

Sudan forces arrest protest leaders who met Ethiopia PM Abiy Ahmed

Hundreds of demonstrators worked through the night into Friday clearing away bricks and debris, after military rulers demanded that roadblocks which have paralysed parts of Khartoum must be dismantled before talks on a new transitional body can resume.

The ruling military council suspended crucial talks Wednesday with protest leaders for 72 hours, insisting that the security in the capital had deteriorated after demonstrators erected roadblocks on several avenues.

The council's decision came as army generals and protest leaders were due to meet to finalise the make-up of a new body to govern Sudan for a transitional period of three years.

The issue is the thorniest to have come up in ongoing talks on reinstating civilian rule after the generals took over following the ouster of autocratic president Omar al-Bashir last month.

But for the final talks to happen the military council chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, demanded that protesters dismantle roadblocks, open bridges and railway lines connecting the capital and "stop provoking security forces".

In the early hours of Friday, hundreds of demonstrators chanting revolutionary slogans tore down roadblocks on Nile Street, a key avenue, that had paralysed downtown Khartoum for several days.

"If our demand is not met, we will return to rebuild the barricade," a visibly angry protester told AFP as behind him demonstrators cleared away bricks and debris.

'Regrettable' decision

Protesters had erected the barricades to pressure the military rulers when talks commenced on Monday, but the roadblocks triggered clashes between demonstrators and security forces according to witnesses.

The military council said roadblocks across Khartoum are "totally unacceptable", but the generals will allow barricades set up by protesters outside the army headquarters to remain and a sit-in there to continue.

Sudanese protesters attended prayers near the military headquarters Friday, sitting on mats placed in rows on the street.

Talks between the two sides achieved significant breakthroughs on Monday but were marred by violence which left five protesters and an army major dead.

Protesters blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Force, but Burhan said there were "armed elements among demonstrators who were shooting at security forces."

The United States and Britain said the authorities were responsible for the violence.

The Alliance for Freedom and Change, which is leading the protest movement, said the move to suspend talks was "regrettable".

"It ignores the developments achieved in negotiations so far... and the fact that Wednesday's meeting was to finalise the agreement, which would have stopped the escalations such as roadblocks."

Thorny issue

The protest movement vowed to press on with the sit-in and has also urged supporters to converge at the army headquarters where thousands have been camped out for weeks.

Protesters are demanding a civilian-led transition, which the generals have steadfastly resisted since bowing to demonstrators' demands and toppling Bashir.

During the first two days of talks, the two sides had agreed on an overall civilian structure, including a three-year period for the full transfer of power to a civilian administration.

They had also agreed that parliament is composed of 300 members for the transition, with around two-thirds from the alliance and the rest drawn from other political groups.

But the make-up of the new sovereign council has been the toughest part of the negotiations, with the two sides so far proposing different compositions of the body.

The council is expected to take all key decisions concerning national issues and the generals want it to be military-led, while the protesters insist it have a civilian majority.

The body is expected to form a transitional civilian government, which would then prepare for the first post-Bashir election after changeover period ends.

Hundreds of demonstrators worked through the night into Friday clearing away bricks and debris, after military rulers demanded that roadblocks which have paralysed parts of Khartoum must be dismantled before talks on a new transitional body can resume.

Hundreds of demonstrators worked through the night into Friday clearing away bricks and debris, after military rulers demanded that roadblocks which have paralysed parts of Khartoum must be dismantled before talks on a new transitional body can resume. The ruling military council suspended crucial talks Wednesday with protest leaders for 72 hours, insisting that the security in the capital had deteriorated after demonstrators erected roadblocks on several avenues. The council's decision came as army generals and protest leaders were due to meet to finalise the make-up of a new body to govern Sudan for a transitional period of three years. The issue is the thorniest to have come up in ongoing talks on reinstating civilian rule after the generals took over following the ouster of autocratic president Omar al-Bashir last month. But for the final talks to happen the military council chief, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, demanded that protesters dismantle roadblocks, open bridges and railway lines connecting the capital and "stop provoking security forces". In the early hours of Friday, hundreds of demonstrators chanting revolutionary slogans tore down roadblocks on Nile Street, a key avenue, that had paralysed downtown Khartoum for several days. "If our demand is not met, we will return to rebuild the barricade," a visibly angry protester told AFP as behind him demonstrators cleared away bricks and debris. 'Regrettable' decision Protesters had erected the barricades to pressure the military rulers when talks commenced on Monday, but the roadblocks triggered clashes between demonstrators and security forces according to witnesses. The military council said roadblocks across Khartoum are "totally unacceptable", but the generals will allow barricades set up by protesters outside the army headquarters to remain and a sit-in there to continue. Sudanese protesters attended prayers near the military headquarters Friday, sitting on mats placed in rows on the street. Talks between the two sides achieved significant breakthroughs on Monday but were marred by violence which left five protesters and an army major dead. Protesters blamed the paramilitary Rapid Support Force, but Burhan said there were "armed elements among demonstrators who were shooting at security forces." The United States and Britain said the authorities were responsible for the violence. The Alliance for Freedom and Change, which is leading the protest movement, said the move to suspend talks was "regrettable". "It ignores the developments achieved in negotiations so far... and the fact that Wednesday's meeting was to finalise the agreement, which would have stopped the escalations such as roadblocks." Thorny issue The protest movement vowed to press on with the sit-in and has also urged supporters to converge at the army headquarters where thousands have been camped out for weeks. Protesters are demanding a civilian-led transition, which the generals have steadfastly resisted since bowing to demonstrators' demands and toppling Bashir. During the first two days of talks, the two sides had agreed on an overall civilian structure, including a three-year period for the full transfer of power to a civilian administration. They had also agreed that parliament is composed of 300 members for the transition, with around two-thirds from the alliance and the rest drawn from other political groups. But the make-up of the new sovereign council has been the toughest part of the negotiations, with the two sides so far proposing different compositions of the body. The council is expected to take all key decisions concerning national issues and the generals want it to be military-led, while the protesters insist it have a civilian majority. The body is expected to form a transitional civilian government, which would then prepare for the first post-Bashir election after changeover period ends.

Sudan protesters tear down roadblocks, want army to resume talks

By Peter Robert Woodward

The trigger for the demonstrations that brought the downfall of President Omar al-Bashir in April was the trebling of the price of bread last December. It came after a major devaluation of the Sudanese pound in an effort to make the official rate for the pound drop to that of the black market. With the International Monetary Fund pushing for austerity and the rate of inflation hovering around 70 per cent, the camel’s back was finally broken.

In fact, the immediate cause of the economic crisis that brought many thousands of Sudanese out onto the streets in December last year and continued up to and beyond al-Bashir’s downfall lay in the structure of the economy itself.

Sudan’s inherited economy from the colonial era consisted primarily of agricultural exports, particularly cotton. But after independence in 1956 that went into a long decline in the face of man-made fibres and a lack of success in developing of alternative crops – with the partial exception of sugar.

In the 2000s the country experienced something of a boom from oil. But the new wealth wasn’t funnelled into the productive economy – particularly agricultural renewal. Rather it went into short-term rent-seeking activities such as urban construction and the expansion of commercial activities.

At the same time, the country’s radical Islamism brought US economic sanctions that limited international capital and the prospect of economic diversity. And under the Islamist military regime – in place since 1989 – new wealth went largely to the security apparatus, the government created the ruling party and ethnic and regional friends.

This all added up to a highly corrupt system of “crony capitalism”. In addition, Sudan’s large long-running debts hung over the country.

The role of oil

The development of oil in Sudan was delayed for many years by civil war in the south, where most of the oil fields are located. But by the end of the 1990s security had permitted development with the southern rebels being pushed back, though not defeated.

Under growing international pressure the military rulers and the southern rebels finally moved towards peace, and in 2005 an agreement was reached. It aimed at a national government but conceded that if that proved unworkable the south, including most of the oil fields, would have a right to a referendum on independence.

In 2011 southerners overwhelmingly chose independence and South Sudan became the world’s newest state. Since then the Sudan government’s oil income has shrunk by about 75 per cent. One reason has been the fluctuating world price of oil, but others are more local.

Oil from South Sudan is pumped north through Sudan to be exported via the Red Sea. After South Sudan’s independence a dispute between the two states about pipeline rents led at one stage to South Sudan closing all its oil production for a year. The flow later restarted, but was once more restricted when South Sudan itself plunged into civil war in 2013, ended only by a fragile peace last year.

The cuts in revenue from oil, combined with sluggish economic growth, led to rising discontent. This came to a head when the government cut subsidies on basics such as bread and oil.

In 2015 a particularly widespread series of demonstrations was met with a violent response. But the causes of discontent remained largely unaddressed and the situation for many people continued to deteriorate, in spite of a partial easing of US sanctions.

What needs to be done 
 
This time around the first mass demonstrations started, unusually, not in the capital but in the regions and in particular in the city of Atbara – which has long been a centre of radical secular thinking – before spreading to the capital in Khartoum.

With memories of the killings of 2015 still fresh there was a good deal of planning going on among the different opposition groups. The security forces also remembered 2015 and this time there was little use of live ammunition, trying to contain rather than shoot the demonstrators in their increasingly well planned and growing efforts.

To restore the economy the post-Bashir government will need to clean up corruption; revive small-scale agriculture in the regions; restore health and education services; and attract investment for productive jobs for underemployed, educated young people who have been the backbone of the uprising.

 
(Peter Robert Woodward is Emeritus Professor of Politics and International Relations, University of Reading)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-sudans-economic-crisis-had-a-role-in-protests-that-toppled-al-bashir-116405">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

By Peter Robert Woodward The trigger for the demonstrations that brought the downfall of President Omar al-Bashir in April was the trebling of the price of bread last December.

By Peter Robert Woodward The trigger for the demonstrations that brought the downfall of President Omar al-Bashir in April was the trebling of the price of bread last December. It came after a major devaluation of the Sudanese pound in an effort to make the official rate for the pound drop to that of the black market. With the International Monetary Fund pushing for austerity and the rate of inflation hovering around 70 per cent, the camel’s back was finally broken. In fact, the immediate cause of the economic crisis that brought many thousands of Sudanese out onto the streets in December last year and continued up to and beyond al-Bashir’s downfall lay in the structure of the economy itself. Sudan’s inherited economy from the colonial era consisted primarily of agricultural exports, particularly cotton. But after independence in 1956 that went into a long decline in the face of man-made fibres and a lack of success in developing of alternative crops – with the partial exception of sugar. In the 2000s the country experienced something of a boom from oil. But the new wealth wasn’t funnelled into the productive economy – particularly agricultural renewal. Rather it went into short-term rent-seeking activities such as urban construction and the expansion of commercial activities. At the same time, the country’s radical Islamism brought US economic sanctions that limited international capital and the prospect of economic diversity. And under the Islamist military regime – in place since 1989 – new wealth went largely to the security apparatus, the government created the ruling party and ethnic and regional friends. This all added up to a highly corrupt system of “crony capitalism”. In addition, Sudan’s large long-running debts hung over the country. The role of oil The development of oil in Sudan was delayed for many years by civil war in the south, where most of the oil fields are located. But by the end of the 1990s security had permitted development with the southern rebels being pushed back, though not defeated. Under growing international pressure the military rulers and the southern rebels finally moved towards peace, and in 2005 an agreement was reached. It aimed at a national government but conceded that if that proved unworkable the south, including most of the oil fields, would have a right to a referendum on independence. In 2011 southerners overwhelmingly chose independence and South Sudan became the world’s newest state. Since then the Sudan government’s oil income has shrunk by about 75 per cent. One reason has been the fluctuating world price of oil, but others are more local. Oil from South Sudan is pumped north through Sudan to be exported via the Red Sea. After South Sudan’s independence a dispute between the two states about pipeline rents led at one stage to South Sudan closing all its oil production for a year. The flow later restarted, but was once more restricted when South Sudan itself plunged into civil war in 2013, ended only by a fragile peace last year. The cuts in revenue from oil, combined with sluggish economic growth, led to rising discontent. This came to a head when the government cut subsidies on basics such as bread and oil. In 2015 a particularly widespread series of demonstrations was met with a violent response. But the causes of discontent remained largely unaddressed and the situation for many people continued to deteriorate, in spite of a partial easing of US sanctions. What needs to be done This time around the first mass demonstrations started, unusually, not in the capital but in the regions and in particular in the city of Atbara – which has long been a centre of radical secular thinking – before spreading to the capital in Khartoum. With memories of the killings of 2015 still fresh there was a good deal of planning going on among the different opposition groups. The security forces also remembered 2015 and this time there was little use of live ammunition, trying to contain rather than shoot the demonstrators in their increasingly well planned and growing efforts. To restore the economy the post-Bashir government will need to clean up corruption; revive small-scale agriculture in the regions; restore health and education services; and attract investment for productive jobs for underemployed, educated young people who have been the backbone of the uprising. (Peter Robert Woodward is Emeritus Professor of Politics and International Relations, University of Reading) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

How Sudan’s economic crisis had a role in protests that toppled al-Bashir

After decades of intense divisions, Sudan's political opposition united recently to form a powerful three-pronged bloc that became part of the protest wave which ousted autocrat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-demand-dissolving-of-ruling-military-council-in-sudan-210698">Omar al-Bashir</a> last week.

During Bashir's politically repressive three-decade rule, Sudan had around 100 political parties. They ranged from Islamists to leftists and ran the gamut from ardent critics to regime loyalists.

A military transitional council is now set to rule the country for the next two years.

Veteran journalist Mahjoub Mohamed Saleh, 91, mapped out the political trajectories of the burgeoning opposition movement for AFP.

Who is the Sudanese opposition?

"The opposition in Sudan now is made up of the (Paris-based) Nidaa Sudan, the National Consensus Forces and the Sudanese Professionals Association," said Saleh, who was imprisoned several times during Bashir's reign.

Collectively, the tripartite bloc is known as the Alliance for Freedom and Change.

Nidaa Sudan includes the Umma Party, the Sudanese Congress Party as well as armed movements such as the Sudan People's Liberation Movement.

The Umma Party is led by Oxford-educated Sadiq al-Mahdi, who was prime minister twice during the 1960s and 1980s and was ousted by Bashir's 1989 coup.

He returned to Sudan this year after a year of self-imposed exile in Cairo.

Meanwhile, the "more radical" Sudanese Communist Party and the Baath Party alongside other leftist gatherings form the National Consensus Forces.

Lastly, the Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA) is comprised of small political cadres mostly staffed by young, urban people counting academics, doctors and engineers among their ranks.

They have been the driving force behind mobilising thousands of demonstrators through their savvy and active social media usage to protest against Bashir since December 18.

The SPA has called on the transitional military council to immediately "hand over power" to a civilian administration and urged demonstrators to continue with their sit-ins.

How strong is the opposition now?

Protesters have been camped for several weeks in front of important government buildings throughout the country.

Saleh says the opposition bloc has been the most consistent and well-organised in agitating for tangible political change.

"For four months, these people were not afraid to put their bodies on the line," he said.

Over 30 protesters have been killed in clashes with security forces since the uprising erupted.

The bloc has urged the forthcoming transitional government to arrest Bashir and a coterie of political elite figures who have been in power since the 1989 coup.

These include the powerful security and intelligence chiefs and leaders of Bashir's National Congress Party.

"All the various parties that make up the opposition are now going to unite, sort out their differences and learn from their previous mistakes at this crucial time," he added.

"But when things return to their natural state, political squabbles and factional in-fighting will ultimately emerge."

What about the Islamists and the diaspora?

"Islamists will not disappear from the scene but will not be as influential, especially with the end of the National Congress Party," the renowned journalist noted.

He told AFP that other Islamist alternatives opposing NCP policies have been a mainstay of Sudanese politics and that they will continue to survive in some form or another.

The most prominent Islamist movement which still has a massive following is the Popular Congress Party, headed by hardline ideological figure Hassan al-Turabi.

With the opposition in the diaspora -- particularly in London and Paris where exiles have been politically active -- Saleh sees them as playing a pivotal role in the future.

Around five million Sudanese live overseas, mostly across the Middle East, Europe and North America.

"All of these opposition movements have their followers overseas ... They represent a mass of human resources that can be drawn upon when it comes to forming a civilian government," Saleh said.

After decades of intense divisions, Sudan's political opposition united recently to form a powerful three-pronged bloc that became part of the protest wave which ousted autocrat Omar al-Bashir last week.

After decades of intense divisions, Sudan's political opposition united recently to form a powerful three-pronged bloc that became part of the protest wave which ousted autocrat Omar al-Bashir last week. During Bashir's politically repressive three-decade rule, Sudan had around 100 political parties. They ranged from Islamists to leftists and ran the gamut from ardent critics to regime loyalists. A military transitional council is now set to rule the country for the next two years. Veteran journalist Mahjoub Mohamed Saleh, 91, mapped out the political trajectories of the burgeoning opposition movement for AFP. Who is the Sudanese opposition? "The opposition in Sudan now is made up of the (Paris-based) Nidaa Sudan, the National Consensus Forces and the Sudanese Professionals Association," said Saleh, who was imprisoned several times during Bashir's reign. Collectively, the tripartite bloc is known as the Alliance for Freedom and Change. Nidaa Sudan includes the Umma Party, the Sudanese Congress Party as well as armed movements such as the Sudan People's Liberation Movement. The Umma Party is led by Oxford-educated Sadiq al-Mahdi, who was prime minister twice during the 1960s and 1980s and was ousted by Bashir's 1989 coup. He returned to Sudan this year after a year of self-imposed exile in Cairo. Meanwhile, the "more radical" Sudanese Communist Party and the Baath Party alongside other leftist gatherings form the National Consensus Forces. Lastly, the Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA) is comprised of small political cadres mostly staffed by young, urban people counting academics, doctors and engineers among their ranks. They have been the driving force behind mobilising thousands of demonstrators through their savvy and active social media usage to protest against Bashir since December 18. The SPA has called on the transitional military council to immediately "hand over power" to a civilian administration and urged demonstrators to continue with their sit-ins. How strong is the opposition now? Protesters have been camped for several weeks in front of important government buildings throughout the country. Saleh says the opposition bloc has been the most consistent and well-organised in agitating for tangible political change. "For four months, these people were not afraid to put their bodies on the line," he said. Over 30 protesters have been killed in clashes with security forces since the uprising erupted. The bloc has urged the forthcoming transitional government to arrest Bashir and a coterie of political elite figures who have been in power since the 1989 coup. These include the powerful security and intelligence chiefs and leaders of Bashir's National Congress Party. "All the various parties that make up the opposition are now going to unite, sort out their differences and learn from their previous mistakes at this crucial time," he added. "But when things return to their natural state, political squabbles and factional in-fighting will ultimately emerge." What about the Islamists and the diaspora? "Islamists will not disappear from the scene but will not be as influential, especially with the end of the National Congress Party," the renowned journalist noted. He told AFP that other Islamist alternatives opposing NCP policies have been a mainstay of Sudanese politics and that they will continue to survive in some form or another. The most prominent Islamist movement which still has a massive following is the Popular Congress Party, headed by hardline ideological figure Hassan al-Turabi. With the opposition in the diaspora -- particularly in London and Paris where exiles have been politically active -- Saleh sees them as playing a pivotal role in the future. Around five million Sudanese live overseas, mostly across the Middle East, Europe and North America. "All of these opposition movements have their followers overseas ... They represent a mass of human resources that can be drawn upon when it comes to forming a civilian government," Saleh said.

Sudan's disparate opposition comes together post Bashir

Sudan's new military ruler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudans-disparate-opposition-comes-together-post-bashir-210807">General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan </a>sacked the country's prosecutor general on Tuesday, the military council said, after protesters demanded he be fired.

"Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has issued a declaration sacking the prosecutor general Omer Ahmed Mohamed," the council said in a statement.

Burhan replaced Mohamed with Al-Waleed Sayyed Ahmed as the country's new acting prosecutor general, the council said.

On Monday the group spearheading the protest movement against the old regime demanded the military council sack the prosecutor general.

Sudan's new military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan sacked the country's prosecutor general on Tuesday, the military council said, after protesters demanded he be fired.

Sudan's new military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan sacked the country's prosecutor general on Tuesday, the military council said, after protesters demanded he be fired. "Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has issued a declaration sacking the prosecutor general Omer Ahmed Mohamed," the council said in a statement. Burhan replaced Mohamed with Al-Waleed Sayyed Ahmed as the country's new acting prosecutor general, the council said. On Monday the group spearheading the protest movement against the old regime demanded the military council sack the prosecutor general.

Sudan's new military ruler General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan sacks prosecutor general

By Willow Berridge

A military coup d’etat in Sudan has ended Omar al-Bashir’s 30-year rule.

This is the sixth coup the country’s military has led since independence in 1956. The military was pressured into the coup by the country’s third major civilian uprising. Historically, the two most famous uprisings were the October Revolution of 1964, which ushered out Sudan’s first military regime, and the April Intifada of 1985, which ousted the second.

As in the 1985 uprising, the military maintains that they are siding with a popular uprising. A Transitional Military Council has been formed and its leadership maintains that it’s committed to bringing back a civil state and multi-party democracy.

But there’s still considerable scepticism towards the new military leaders. Protesters continue their sit-in outside army headquarters, which originally began nine days ago when they demanded the army support the movement against al-Bashir. They now fear the army may use force to break it up.

The continuing protests have forced the Transitional Military Council to change its leader once already. And there are worrying signs that the transition to civilian rule will not be smooth.

There is a real risk that a trend which emerged during the last two transitional periods of 1964 - 1965 and 1985 - 1986 will be repeated. On both occasions, key rebel groups didn’t participate in the negotiations. This meant that negotiated settlements of the country’s broader conflicts were doomed from the get-go.

The other danger is the military’s future role. Key here will be the relationship between the new military transition council and the civilian leaders of the Intifada.

Sudan has seen this movie play out before. In 1985, Siwar al-Dahab became chairman of a transitional military council after he had ousted President Gaafar Nimeiry in a coup. After elections, he surrendered power to prime minister Sadiq al-Mahdi.

Siwar al-Dahab, relatively unambitious but politically conservative, played on divides between the political parties and the professionals, and between left-leaning and Islamist-leaning factions in the professional movement. The result was that the Intifada failed to achieve a number of its aspirations for more meaningful social transformation.

It’s crucial that the professionals and other political forces do not allow the same issues that divided them in 1985 to divide them today. This could play into the hands of the factions in the military that want to maintain the authoritarian system which awarded the majority of the government’s budget to the security sector.

The principal players

Events since al-Bashir was forced out suggest there’s still a lot left to play for.

Lieutenant General Ahmed Awad Ibn Auf was named as al-Bashir’s replacement. But he was forced to step down after just one day as protesters regarded him as too close to al-Bashir’s regime.

General Abdel-Fattah Burhan then took over the military council, immediately promising to “uproot” al-Bashir’s regime. He also promised to hand over power to civilians after a two year transition period.

Burhan, a soldier by profession, has never previously taken any political positions. His role in the army included responsibility for Sudan’s operations alongside the Saudi led coalition in Yemen. He also has close ties to the Transitional Military Council’s new deputy leader Mohammad Hamdan aka Himeidti, who helped him remove al-Bashir from power.

Himeidti is the commander of the Rapid Support Forces, a private military force which was partially integrated into the military and security services. The unit is regarded by many as a re-branded version of the Janjaweed militias of which Himeidti was himself apart. These perpetrated mass atrocities during the government’s counter-insurgency against the rebel movement in Darfur from 2003.

How the leaders of the Darfur rebel factions react to Himeidti’s involvement will be crucial to the viability of any transitional government Burhan leads.

Equally important is who comes out on top in the current contest over key ministerial posts.

Control of ministries 
 
The Transitional Military Council has demanded that it’s represented in both the interior and defence ministries.

Care needs to be taken on these appointments. Whoever controls these ministries will be in a position to determine the fate of the deeply entrenched, and highly corrupt, military and security complex established by al-Bashir and his Islamist allies.

It’s also crucial that any new technocratic cabinet is not seen as being biased towards one political group or set of interests.

Historically there has been a great deal of crossover between prominent professional unions and the political parties. Particularly with regards to lawyers, doctors and university lecturers who played a prominent role in the forerunner of today’s Sudan Professional Association.

In 1964, many of the professionals who participated in the first transitional cabinet were members or sympathisers of the Sudan Communist Party. In 1985, a good number of them sympathised to a greater or lesser extent with political Islam.

During the uprising the Sudan Professional Association has been good at not making its affiliations clear. But as it becomes more public – and members engage in talks and join transitional bodies – there will inevitably be considerable speculation as to its sympathies.

Representation of marginalised groups 
 
The new cabinet should also take two other issues on board: women’s representation and regional representation.

Previous transitional cabinets have been very male dominated. This needs to change, particularly given the enormous presence of women on the streets during this uprising.

Regional representation is also key. There’s a real risk that the trend from the last two transitional periods continues. Then, political forces based in the riverain north negotiated the transition to democracy and rebels did not participate in the interim governments. This meant that the war in the periphery continued, as did the regional inequalities that fed it.

Then it was the southern-based rebels that were sidelined during the transitional process. Now it could be those who have taken up arms in the West of the country.

It’s crucial that both east, west and the new south – and particularly the groups targeted by the regime’s lethal counter-insurgencies – are given fair representation.

(Willow Berridge is Lecturer in History, Newcastle University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/sudan-can-avoid-past-mistakes-by-drawing-lessons-from-its-history-115470">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) &nbsp;

By Willow Berridge A military coup d’etat in Sudan has ended Omar al-Bashir’s 30-year rule. This is the sixth coup the country’s military has led since independence in 1956.

By Willow Berridge A military coup d’etat in Sudan has ended Omar al-Bashir’s 30-year rule. This is the sixth coup the country’s military has led since independence in 1956. The military was pressured into the coup by the country’s third major civilian uprising. Historically, the two most famous uprisings were the October Revolution of 1964, which ushered out Sudan’s first military regime, and the April Intifada of 1985, which ousted the second. As in the 1985 uprising, the military maintains that they are siding with a popular uprising. A Transitional Military Council has been formed and its leadership maintains that it’s committed to bringing back a civil state and multi-party democracy. But there’s still considerable scepticism towards the new military leaders. Protesters continue their sit-in outside army headquarters, which originally began nine days ago when they demanded the army support the movement against al-Bashir. They now fear the army may use force to break it up. The continuing protests have forced the Transitional Military Council to change its leader once already. And there are worrying signs that the transition to civilian rule will not be smooth. There is a real risk that a trend which emerged during the last two transitional periods of 1964 - 1965 and 1985 - 1986 will be repeated. On both occasions, key rebel groups didn’t participate in the negotiations. This meant that negotiated settlements of the country’s broader conflicts were doomed from the get-go. The other danger is the military’s future role. Key here will be the relationship between the new military transition council and the civilian leaders of the Intifada. Sudan has seen this movie play out before. In 1985, Siwar al-Dahab became chairman of a transitional military council after he had ousted President Gaafar Nimeiry in a coup. After elections, he surrendered power to prime minister Sadiq al-Mahdi. Siwar al-Dahab, relatively unambitious but politically conservative, played on divides between the political parties and the professionals, and between left-leaning and Islamist-leaning factions in the professional movement. The result was that the Intifada failed to achieve a number of its aspirations for more meaningful social transformation. It’s crucial that the professionals and other political forces do not allow the same issues that divided them in 1985 to divide them today. This could play into the hands of the factions in the military that want to maintain the authoritarian system which awarded the majority of the government’s budget to the security sector. The principal players Events since al-Bashir was forced out suggest there’s still a lot left to play for. Lieutenant General Ahmed Awad Ibn Auf was named as al-Bashir’s replacement. But he was forced to step down after just one day as protesters regarded him as too close to al-Bashir’s regime. General Abdel-Fattah Burhan then took over the military council, immediately promising to “uproot” al-Bashir’s regime. He also promised to hand over power to civilians after a two year transition period. Burhan, a soldier by profession, has never previously taken any political positions. His role in the army included responsibility for Sudan’s operations alongside the Saudi led coalition in Yemen. He also has close ties to the Transitional Military Council’s new deputy leader Mohammad Hamdan aka Himeidti, who helped him remove al-Bashir from power. Himeidti is the commander of the Rapid Support Forces, a private military force which was partially integrated into the military and security services. The unit is regarded by many as a re-branded version of the Janjaweed militias of which Himeidti was himself apart. These perpetrated mass atrocities during the government’s counter-insurgency against the rebel movement in Darfur from 2003. How the leaders of the Darfur rebel factions react to Himeidti’s involvement will be crucial to the viability of any transitional government Burhan leads. Equally important is who comes out on top in the current contest over key ministerial posts. Control of ministries The Transitional Military Council has demanded that it’s represented in both the interior and defence ministries. Care needs to be taken on these appointments. Whoever controls these ministries will be in a position to determine the fate of the deeply entrenched, and highly corrupt, military and security complex established by al-Bashir and his Islamist allies. It’s also crucial that any new technocratic cabinet is not seen as being biased towards one political group or set of interests. Historically there has been a great deal of crossover between prominent professional unions and the political parties. Particularly with regards to lawyers, doctors and university lecturers who played a prominent role in the forerunner of today’s Sudan Professional Association. In 1964, many of the professionals who participated in the first transitional cabinet were members or sympathisers of the Sudan Communist Party. In 1985, a good number of them sympathised to a greater or lesser extent with political Islam. During the uprising the Sudan Professional Association has been good at not making its affiliations clear. But as it becomes more public – and members engage in talks and join transitional bodies – there will inevitably be considerable speculation as to its sympathies. Representation of marginalised groups The new cabinet should also take two other issues on board: women’s representation and regional representation. Previous transitional cabinets have been very male dominated. This needs to change, particularly given the enormous presence of women on the streets during this uprising. Regional representation is also key. There’s a real risk that the trend from the last two transitional periods continues. Then, political forces based in the riverain north negotiated the transition to democracy and rebels did not participate in the interim governments. This meant that the war in the periphery continued, as did the regional inequalities that fed it. Then it was the southern-based rebels that were sidelined during the transitional process. Now it could be those who have taken up arms in the West of the country. It’s crucial that both east, west and the new south – and particularly the groups targeted by the regime’s lethal counter-insurgencies – are given fair representation. (Willow Berridge is Lecturer in History, Newcastle University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Sudan can avoid past mistakes by drawing lessons from its history

Sudanese police fired tear gas on Sunday at protesters ahead of a planned march on parliament in Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum, witnesses said.

Demonstrators chanting "freedom, peace and justice" began gathering in some areas of Omdurman but were quickly confronted by riot police with tear gas, the witnesses said.

Deadly protests which erupted on December 19 after a government decision to raise the price of bread have turned into nationwide rallies against President Omar al-Bashir's three-decade rule.

Officials say at least 26 people, including two security personnel, have died during a month of protests, while rights group Amnesty International last week put the death toll at more than 40.

The Sudanese Professionals Association, an umbrella group of trade unions that is leading the ongoing protest movement, called for fresh demonstrations on Sunday and several days over the coming week.

"We are calling for a march to parliament in Omdurman on Sunday," it said in a statement.

"The protesters will submit to parliament a memorandum calling on President Bashir to step down," added the association, which represents the unions of doctors, teachers and engineers.

The SPA said there will also be rallies in Khartoum on Sunday, to be followed by night-time demonstrations on Tuesday in the capital and in Omdurman.

"And on Thursday there will be rallies across all towns and cities of Sudan," the statement added.

On Sunday, protesters also staged a demonstration in the capital's eastern district of Bahari, witnesses said.

The government's tough response against demonstrators has sparked international criticism, while Bashir has blamed the violence on unidentified "conspirators".

Analysts say the protests have emerged as the biggest challenge yet to the authority of the veteran leader, who swept to power in 1989 in an Islamist-backed coup.

The protests come as Sudan suffers an economic crisis driven by an acute shortage of foreign currency and soaring inflation that has more than doubled the price of food and medicines.

A doctors' committee linked to anti-government protests apologised on Sunday for incorrectly reporting that a child had been killed in demonstrations in Khartoum that took place on January 17.

Sudanese police said that two people had died in demonstrations that rocked Khartoum on Thursday, but protest organisers had reported that three people were killed, including a child, in clashes with riot police.

"This mistake happened because we trusted a confident source, but we are now investigating the matter," a committee of doctors linked to the SPA said in a statement on Facebook, confirming that two people had died in the demonstrations on Thursday.

Riot police had on Thursday broken up a march on the presidential palace in Khartoum, while a rally took place later that day in the capital's Burri district, witnesses said.

Sudanese police fired tear gas on Sunday at protesters ahead of a planned march on parliament in Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum, witnesses said. Demonstrators chanting "freedom, peace and justice" began gathering in some areas of Omdurman but were quickly confronted by riot police with tear gas, the witnesses said.

Sudanese police fired tear gas on Sunday at protesters ahead of a planned march on parliament in Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum, witnesses said. Demonstrators chanting "freedom, peace and justice" began gathering in some areas of Omdurman but were quickly confronted by riot police with tear gas, the witnesses said. Deadly protests which erupted on December 19 after a government decision to raise the price of bread have turned into nationwide rallies against President Omar al-Bashir's three-decade rule. Officials say at least 26 people, including two security personnel, have died during a month of protests, while rights group Amnesty International last week put the death toll at more than 40. The Sudanese Professionals Association, an umbrella group of trade unions that is leading the ongoing protest movement, called for fresh demonstrations on Sunday and several days over the coming week. "We are calling for a march to parliament in Omdurman on Sunday," it said in a statement. "The protesters will submit to parliament a memorandum calling on President Bashir to step down," added the association, which represents the unions of doctors, teachers and engineers. The SPA said there will also be rallies in Khartoum on Sunday, to be followed by night-time demonstrations on Tuesday in the capital and in Omdurman. "And on Thursday there will be rallies across all towns and cities of Sudan," the statement added. On Sunday, protesters also staged a demonstration in the capital's eastern district of Bahari, witnesses said. The government's tough response against demonstrators has sparked international criticism, while Bashir has blamed the violence on unidentified "conspirators". Analysts say the protests have emerged as the biggest challenge yet to the authority of the veteran leader, who swept to power in 1989 in an Islamist-backed coup. The protests come as Sudan suffers an economic crisis driven by an acute shortage of foreign currency and soaring inflation that has more than doubled the price of food and medicines. A doctors' committee linked to anti-government protests apologised on Sunday for incorrectly reporting that a child had been killed in demonstrations in Khartoum that took place on January 17. Sudanese police said that two people had died in demonstrations that rocked Khartoum on Thursday, but protest organisers had reported that three people were killed, including a child, in clashes with riot police. "This mistake happened because we trusted a confident source, but we are now investigating the matter," a committee of doctors linked to the SPA said in a statement on Facebook, confirming that two people had died in the demonstrations on Thursday. Riot police had on Thursday broken up a march on the presidential palace in Khartoum, while a rally took place later that day in the capital's Burri district, witnesses said.

Sudan police tear gas protesters ahead of parliament march: Witnesses

Sudanese police broke up several protests held after Friday prayers, as security agents arrested a top opposition leader following calls for more demonstrations against a rise in bread prices.

Angry crowds have taken to the streets in Khartoum and other cities since December 19 after a government decision to hike the cost of bread.

Nineteen people have been killed so far in the protests, the government said, and the UN on Friday called on the authorities in Sudan to investigate the deaths.

Police fired tear gas at hundreds of worshippers who staged demonstrations after Friday prayers in several cities, including Khartoum and its twin city of Omdurman on the west bank of the Nile, witnesses said.

Photographs posted by activists on social media networks showed thick plumes of smoke rising from some neighbourhoods in Khartoum as protesters burnt garbage and tyres.

In Omdurman, crowds of worshippers chanted "Freedom, Peace, Justice" as they poured out of a mosque belonging to main opposition National Umma Party, a witness said.

But they were quickly confronted by anti-riot police, the witness added.

The protests came as opposition groups called for more anti-government rallies to be held over the next few days.

A group of opposition parties met late on Thursday and agreed to "push for more protests" in the coming days, the Sudanese Communist Party said in a statement.

Several opposition party members have been arrested amid a crackdown on demonstrations.

UN expert alarmed

The opposition Sudanese Congress Party said that a few hours after protests began on Friday its chief Omar el-Digeir was arrested by security agents.

"He has been taken to an unknown location," the party said in a statement.

The Sudanese Writers' Association said that well-known poet Mohamed Taha had also been arrested on Tuesday after he participated in a protest in Khartoum.

"We don't know his whereabouts," the association said.

The Sudanese journalists network said that two journalists were detained.&nbsp;

Among those killed in the protests -- which first erupted in towns and villages and later spread to Khartoum -- were two security personnel, according to the government.&nbsp;

Most died during "incidents of looting", while 219 people were wounded, said government spokesman Boshara Juma, adding that no deaths had been reported in Khartoum so far.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed "for calm and restraint" and called on "the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the deaths and violence", a UN spokesman said in a statement.

The UN chief is "following with concern" developments in Sudan and "emphasises the need to safeguard freedom of expression and peaceful assembly", the spokesman added.

Late on Friday a minister said police had captured a group belonging to a prominent rebel leader from war-torn Darfur that had plans to "kill demonstrators".

"Police captured 10 people belonging to SLA/Abdel Wahid group along with 14 Kalashnikovs and 1,000 bullets," Minister of State for Information Mamoun Hassan said.

He said police also confiscated some computers from the group.

"Documents inside the computers reveal that these people had plans to kill demonstrators," Hassan said.

Crowds of people have rallied since last week after the government raised the price of a loaf of bread from one Sudanese pound to three (from about two to six US cents).

Although most protests are against the high cost of living and food prices, some protesters have also adopted the slogan used in the 2011 Arab Spring -- "the people want the fall of the regime".

Sudan is facing an acute foreign exchange crisis and soaring inflation, despite Washington lifting an economic embargo in October 2017.

Inflation is running at 70 percent and the Sudanese pound has plunged in value, while shortages of bread and fuel have regularly hit several cities.

Sudanese police broke up several protests held after Friday prayers, as security agents arrested a top opposition leader following calls for more demonstrations against a rise in bread prices.

Sudanese police broke up several protests held after Friday prayers, as security agents arrested a top opposition leader following calls for more demonstrations against a rise in bread prices. Angry crowds have taken to the streets in Khartoum and other cities since December 19 after a government decision to hike the cost of bread. Nineteen people have been killed so far in the protests, the government said, and the UN on Friday called on the authorities in Sudan to investigate the deaths. Police fired tear gas at hundreds of worshippers who staged demonstrations after Friday prayers in several cities, including Khartoum and its twin city of Omdurman on the west bank of the Nile, witnesses said. Photographs posted by activists on social media networks showed thick plumes of smoke rising from some neighbourhoods in Khartoum as protesters burnt garbage and tyres. In Omdurman, crowds of worshippers chanted "Freedom, Peace, Justice" as they poured out of a mosque belonging to main opposition National Umma Party, a witness said. But they were quickly confronted by anti-riot police, the witness added. The protests came as opposition groups called for more anti-government rallies to be held over the next few days. A group of opposition parties met late on Thursday and agreed to "push for more protests" in the coming days, the Sudanese Communist Party said in a statement. Several opposition party members have been arrested amid a crackdown on demonstrations. UN expert alarmed The opposition Sudanese Congress Party said that a few hours after protests began on Friday its chief Omar el-Digeir was arrested by security agents. "He has been taken to an unknown location," the party said in a statement. The Sudanese Writers' Association said that well-known poet Mohamed Taha had also been arrested on Tuesday after he participated in a protest in Khartoum. "We don't know his whereabouts," the association said. The Sudanese journalists network said that two journalists were detained. Among those killed in the protests -- which first erupted in towns and villages and later spread to Khartoum -- were two security personnel, according to the government. Most died during "incidents of looting", while 219 people were wounded, said government spokesman Boshara Juma, adding that no deaths had been reported in Khartoum so far. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed "for calm and restraint" and called on "the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the deaths and violence", a UN spokesman said in a statement. The UN chief is "following with concern" developments in Sudan and "emphasises the need to safeguard freedom of expression and peaceful assembly", the spokesman added. Late on Friday a minister said police had captured a group belonging to a prominent rebel leader from war-torn Darfur that had plans to "kill demonstrators". "Police captured 10 people belonging to SLA/Abdel Wahid group along with 14 Kalashnikovs and 1,000 bullets," Minister of State for Information Mamoun Hassan said. He said police also confiscated some computers from the group. "Documents inside the computers reveal that these people had plans to kill demonstrators," Hassan said. Crowds of people have rallied since last week after the government raised the price of a loaf of bread from one Sudanese pound to three (from about two to six US cents). Although most protests are against the high cost of living and food prices, some protesters have also adopted the slogan used in the 2011 Arab Spring -- "the people want the fall of the regime". Sudan is facing an acute foreign exchange crisis and soaring inflation, despite Washington lifting an economic embargo in October 2017. Inflation is running at 70 percent and the Sudanese pound has plunged in value, while shortages of bread and fuel have regularly hit several cities.

Sudan police break up new protests as opposition leader arrested

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