Sudan's army rulers announced talks will resume with protest leaders Sunday, four days after the generals suspended negotiations on implementing the civilian rule in the country.

"The Transitional Military Council announces the resumption of negotiations with the Alliance for Freedom and Change on Sunday at the presidential palace," the ruling army council said in a Saturday statement.

World powers have urged the generals to resume meetings on Sudan's future leadership, following the ouster last month of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir after mass protest.

Representatives from the United Nations, African Union and European powers "called for an immediate resumption of talks", said Tibor Nagy, the US assistant secretary of state for Africa.

They called on both sides to "reach an agreement ASAP on an interim government that is truly civilian-led and reflects the will of the Sudanese people," Nagy tweeted Friday.

The generals and protest leaders had been expected to come to an agreement on Wednesday on the thorniest issue -- the make-up of a new body to govern Sudan for three years.

But that meeting never took place and on Thursday the head of the military council, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, confirmed talks were suspended for 72 hours.&nbsp;

Demonstrators subsequently spent hours meeting Burhan's demand to dismantle roadblocks which had paralysed parts of the capital.

The generals have allowed protesters to hold onto their sit-in outside Khartoum's army headquarters, where they remain camped out to demand a rapid transition to democracy.

Sudan's army rulers announced talks will resume with protest leaders Sunday, four days after the generals suspended negotiations on implementing the civilian rule in the country.

Sudan's army rulers announced talks will resume with protest leaders Sunday, four days after the generals suspended negotiations on implementing the civilian rule in the country. "The Transitional Military Council announces the resumption of negotiations with the Alliance for Freedom and Change on Sunday at the presidential palace," the ruling army council said in a Saturday statement. World powers have urged the generals to resume meetings on Sudan's future leadership, following the ouster last month of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir after mass protest. Representatives from the United Nations, African Union and European powers "called for an immediate resumption of talks", said Tibor Nagy, the US assistant secretary of state for Africa. They called on both sides to "reach an agreement ASAP on an interim government that is truly civilian-led and reflects the will of the Sudanese people," Nagy tweeted Friday. The generals and protest leaders had been expected to come to an agreement on Wednesday on the thorniest issue -- the make-up of a new body to govern Sudan for three years. But that meeting never took place and on Thursday the head of the military council, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, confirmed talks were suspended for 72 hours. Demonstrators subsequently spent hours meeting Burhan's demand to dismantle roadblocks which had paralysed parts of the capital. The generals have allowed protesters to hold onto their sit-in outside Khartoum's army headquarters, where they remain camped out to demand a rapid transition to democracy.

Sudan army rulers say talks with protesters to resume Sunday

Five Sudanese protesters and an army major were shot dead Monday in the capital, hours after protest leaders and the ruling generals reached a breakthrough agreement on transitional authorities to run the country.

The latest developments came as the prosecutor general's office said ousted president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudans-ousted-president-bashir-charged-over-killing-of-protesters-218466">Omar al-Bashir had been charged over the killings</a> of protesters during anti-regime demonstrations that led to the end of his rule last month.

The major and a protester were killed at a sit-in outside the army headquarters in Khartoum where thousands of protesters remain camped for weeks, demanding that the army generals who took power after ousting Bashir step down.

Three soldiers and several protesters and civilians were also wounded when "unidentified elements" fired shots at the Khartoum sit-in, the ruling military council said.

A doctors' committee linked to the protest movement later said four more protesters had been shot dead, but did not specify if they were actually killed at the sit-in.

The military council said in a late night press conference that it had "noticed some armed infiltrators among the protesters".

The umbrella protest movement the Alliance for Freedom and Change said Monday's violence was to "disturb the breakthrough in the negotiations" with army generals as it blamed the bloodshed on the former regime's militias.

Earlier on Monday, the generals and the protest movement said a breakthrough had been reached in their talks over handing of power to a civilian administration.

"At today's meeting we agreed on the structure of the authorities and their powers," Taha Osman, a spokesman for the protest movement, told AFP.

"The authorities are as follows -- the sovereign council, the cabinet and the legislative body," he said.

Osman said another meeting would be held on Tuesday "to discuss the period of transition and the composition of the authorities".

Talks to continue Tuesday

The military council confirmed an accord had been reached.

"We agreed on forming the transitional authority on all three levels -- the sovereign, the executive and the legislative," council spokesman Lieutenant General Shamseddine Kabbashi told reporters.

"Tomorrow we will continue to discuss the percentage of participation... and the transitional period."

The generals insist the transitional period should be two years, while protesters want it to be four years.

The crucial talks between the two sides follow a deadlock in negotiations.

The apparent breakthrough came as Sudan's acting prosecutor general Al-Waleed Sayyed Ahmed said Bashir "and others have been charged for inciting and participating in the killing of demonstrators".

The charges form part of an investigation into the death of a medic killed during a protest in the capital's eastern district of Burri, his office said in a statement.

Ninety people were killed in protest-related violence after demonstrations initially erupted in December, the doctors' committee said last month.

The official death toll is 65.

Mass protests which drove Bashir from office on April 11 are still being held outside the army headquarters, vowing to force the military council to cede power.

Prior to Monday's talks, dozens of protesters blocked Nile Street, a major avenue in the city, for the second consecutive day, an AFP correspondent reported.

Pressing their demand for a handover to civilian rule, protesters also blocked a road leading to the capital's northern district of Bahari.

Three protesters were wounded by "live ammunition" when security personnel tried to dismantle blockades put by demonstrators in parts of the capital, the doctors' committee said.

"We reject using force against the civilians ... we are calling on the military council to take its responsibility in protecting the peaceful protesters," the Alliance for Freedom and Change said.

'Optimistic atmosphere'

Following a deadlock in negotiations, the protest alliance on Saturday said the army generals had invited the movement for a new round of talks.

The generals in earlier talks had proposed the new council be led by the military, while the protest leaders want a majority civilian body.

Late last month, the alliance -- which brings together protest organisers, opposition parties and rebel groups -- handed the generals its proposals for a civilian-led transitional government.

But the generals pointed to what they call "many reservations" over the alliance's roadmap.

They have singled out its silence on the constitutional position of Islamic sharia law, which was the guiding principle of all legislation under Bashir's rule.

Demonstrators converged on the military complex last month seeking the army's help in ousting Bashir.

Days later the army ousted the veteran leader, but a 10-member military council took power and demonstrators have kept up their sit-in against the generals.

Although crowds have dwindled during the day due to the scorching heat, protesters gather in their thousands after breaking the daytime fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Five Sudanese protesters and an army major were shot dead Monday in the capital, hours after protest leaders and the ruling generals reached a breakthrough agreement on transitional authorities to run the country.

Five Sudanese protesters and an army major were shot dead Monday in the capital, hours after protest leaders and the ruling generals reached a breakthrough agreement on transitional authorities to run the country. The latest developments came as the prosecutor general's office said ousted president Omar al-Bashir had been charged over the killings of protesters during anti-regime demonstrations that led to the end of his rule last month. The major and a protester were killed at a sit-in outside the army headquarters in Khartoum where thousands of protesters remain camped for weeks, demanding that the army generals who took power after ousting Bashir step down. Three soldiers and several protesters and civilians were also wounded when "unidentified elements" fired shots at the Khartoum sit-in, the ruling military council said. A doctors' committee linked to the protest movement later said four more protesters had been shot dead, but did not specify if they were actually killed at the sit-in. The military council said in a late night press conference that it had "noticed some armed infiltrators among the protesters". The umbrella protest movement the Alliance for Freedom and Change said Monday's violence was to "disturb the breakthrough in the negotiations" with army generals as it blamed the bloodshed on the former regime's militias. Earlier on Monday, the generals and the protest movement said a breakthrough had been reached in their talks over handing of power to a civilian administration. "At today's meeting we agreed on the structure of the authorities and their powers," Taha Osman, a spokesman for the protest movement, told AFP. "The authorities are as follows -- the sovereign council, the cabinet and the legislative body," he said. Osman said another meeting would be held on Tuesday "to discuss the period of transition and the composition of the authorities". Talks to continue Tuesday The military council confirmed an accord had been reached. "We agreed on forming the transitional authority on all three levels -- the sovereign, the executive and the legislative," council spokesman Lieutenant General Shamseddine Kabbashi told reporters. "Tomorrow we will continue to discuss the percentage of participation... and the transitional period." The generals insist the transitional period should be two years, while protesters want it to be four years. The crucial talks between the two sides follow a deadlock in negotiations. The apparent breakthrough came as Sudan's acting prosecutor general Al-Waleed Sayyed Ahmed said Bashir "and others have been charged for inciting and participating in the killing of demonstrators". The charges form part of an investigation into the death of a medic killed during a protest in the capital's eastern district of Burri, his office said in a statement. Ninety people were killed in protest-related violence after demonstrations initially erupted in December, the doctors' committee said last month. The official death toll is 65. Mass protests which drove Bashir from office on April 11 are still being held outside the army headquarters, vowing to force the military council to cede power. Prior to Monday's talks, dozens of protesters blocked Nile Street, a major avenue in the city, for the second consecutive day, an AFP correspondent reported. Pressing their demand for a handover to civilian rule, protesters also blocked a road leading to the capital's northern district of Bahari. Three protesters were wounded by "live ammunition" when security personnel tried to dismantle blockades put by demonstrators in parts of the capital, the doctors' committee said. "We reject using force against the civilians ... we are calling on the military council to take its responsibility in protecting the peaceful protesters," the Alliance for Freedom and Change said. 'Optimistic atmosphere' Following a deadlock in negotiations, the protest alliance on Saturday said the army generals had invited the movement for a new round of talks. The generals in earlier talks had proposed the new council be led by the military, while the protest leaders want a majority civilian body. Late last month, the alliance -- which brings together protest organisers, opposition parties and rebel groups -- handed the generals its proposals for a civilian-led transitional government. But the generals pointed to what they call "many reservations" over the alliance's roadmap. They have singled out its silence on the constitutional position of Islamic sharia law, which was the guiding principle of all legislation under Bashir's rule. Demonstrators converged on the military complex last month seeking the army's help in ousting Bashir. Days later the army ousted the veteran leader, but a 10-member military council took power and demonstrators have kept up their sit-in against the generals. Although crowds have dwindled during the day due to the scorching heat, protesters gather in their thousands after breaking the daytime fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Six shot dead as Sudan sees breakthrough in civil rule talks

Sudanese protest and opposition leaders on Wednesday called for a campaign of civil disobedience in response to what one of them described as the military`s "disappointing" answer to their proposals for an interim government.

This could put the protesters and the ruling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-military-rulers-want-sharia-law-to-guide-legislation-under-interim-government-216871">Transitional Military Council (TMC)</a> on a collision course following weeks of wrangling over how to manage an interim period after the ousting of long-ruling President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-sudans-economic-crisis-had-a-role-in-protests-that-toppled-al-bashir-216685/amp">Omar al-Bashir </a>from office.

"We call for and prepare for civil disobedience," Madani Abbas Madani, a leader of the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces (DFCF), told a news conference in Khartoum.

The DFCF, the opposition groups` umbrella body, did not give details of what it planned. But the DFCF has led work strikes, marches, protest sit-ins and other acts of civil disobedience for weeks. Protesters have also blocked bridges, roads and rail tracks, disrupting Sudan`s transport infrastructure.

Khalid Omar Yousef, another protest leader, said the aim was not to start a confrontation with the military but to speed up efforts to resolve the impasse.

Thousands of protesters have camped for weeks outside the Defence Ministry in central Khartoum and, having secured a military overthrow of Bashir, are now demanding that the TMC hand over power to civilians.

The constitutional draft prepared by the DFCF describes the duties of a sovereign transitional council that would replace the TMC, but does not specify who would sit on it. The plan, seen by Reuters, also outlines the responsibilities of the Cabinet and a 120-member legislature.

US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan spoke with Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the chairman of the TMC, on Wednesday and urged it to reach agreement with the DFCF that reflects the will of the Sudanese people and to move "expeditiously" toward a civilian-led interim government.

In a statement, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Sullivan also "encouraged the TMC to allow peaceful protest and the freedom of expression consistent with Sudan’s human rights obligations."&nbsp;

A senior Kenyan diplomat praised the "responsible" and "patient" behaviour of the opposition protesters.

"Us as a neighbour ... send our solidarity message into Sudan to express our support for the people and to urge an inclusive process," Monica Juma, Kenya`s chief Cabinet secretary for foreign affairs, told reporters in Washington after launching a strategic dialogue with the United States.

"We called on all parties to act with restraint ... because it is important that this process evolves in a peaceful manner," she said.

`IDEOLOGICAL WEAPONS`

On Tuesday, the TMC welcomed the proposals but said they neglected some important issues such as a reference to Islamic sharia as a source for legislation.

The protesters accused the TMC of dragging its feet, saying issues like sharia were not a matter for the interim constitution.

"Issues like sharia and the language of the state, those are ideological weapons the former regime (kept) using to divide the people for the issue of mobilisation," DFCF member Yousef said.

"Muslims against non-Muslims, Arabs against non-Arabs. It`s a very dangerous thing and we are not willing to go for this game."

Sudan`s population of around 40 million is about 97 per cent Muslim, with most of the rest Christians. The country is a mix of ethnic groups, including Arabs, Nubians and other African ethnic minorities.

Opposition leaders said at the news conference on Wednesday that the TMC response would effectively give the military control of a proposed interim government.

A TMC member, Lieutenant General Yasser al-Atta, said the council was prepared to sit down with the protesters to discuss the differences.

The TMC has said it is willing to agree to a government of technocrats, but that it wants to retain overall control pending elections to prevent Sudan sliding into chaos.

Seeking to show it is heeding protesters` demands, the council has fired senior Bashir aides, placed paramilitary security bodies under state control and ordered the dissolution of a security agency that was linked to the former president`s ruling Islamist party.&nbsp;

Bashir, in power for 30 years, is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes in Sudan`s western Darfur region. He is in prison and under investigation for money laundering.

Sudanese protest and opposition leaders on Wednesday called for a campaign of civil disobedience in response to what one of them described as the military`s "disappointing" answer to their proposals for an interim government.

Sudanese protest and opposition leaders on Wednesday called for a campaign of civil disobedience in response to what one of them described as the military`s "disappointing" answer to their proposals for an interim government. This could put the protesters and the ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC) on a collision course following weeks of wrangling over how to manage an interim period after the ousting of long-ruling President Omar al-Bashir from office. "We call for and prepare for civil disobedience," Madani Abbas Madani, a leader of the Declaration of Freedom and Change Forces (DFCF), told a news conference in Khartoum. The DFCF, the opposition groups` umbrella body, did not give details of what it planned. But the DFCF has led work strikes, marches, protest sit-ins and other acts of civil disobedience for weeks. Protesters have also blocked bridges, roads and rail tracks, disrupting Sudan`s transport infrastructure. Khalid Omar Yousef, another protest leader, said the aim was not to start a confrontation with the military but to speed up efforts to resolve the impasse. Thousands of protesters have camped for weeks outside the Defence Ministry in central Khartoum and, having secured a military overthrow of Bashir, are now demanding that the TMC hand over power to civilians. The constitutional draft prepared by the DFCF describes the duties of a sovereign transitional council that would replace the TMC, but does not specify who would sit on it. The plan, seen by Reuters, also outlines the responsibilities of the Cabinet and a 120-member legislature. US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan spoke with Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the chairman of the TMC, on Wednesday and urged it to reach agreement with the DFCF that reflects the will of the Sudanese people and to move "expeditiously" toward a civilian-led interim government. In a statement, State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Sullivan also "encouraged the TMC to allow peaceful protest and the freedom of expression consistent with Sudan’s human rights obligations." A senior Kenyan diplomat praised the "responsible" and "patient" behaviour of the opposition protesters. "Us as a neighbour ... send our solidarity message into Sudan to express our support for the people and to urge an inclusive process," Monica Juma, Kenya`s chief Cabinet secretary for foreign affairs, told reporters in Washington after launching a strategic dialogue with the United States. "We called on all parties to act with restraint ... because it is important that this process evolves in a peaceful manner," she said. `IDEOLOGICAL WEAPONS` On Tuesday, the TMC welcomed the proposals but said they neglected some important issues such as a reference to Islamic sharia as a source for legislation. The protesters accused the TMC of dragging its feet, saying issues like sharia were not a matter for the interim constitution. "Issues like sharia and the language of the state, those are ideological weapons the former regime (kept) using to divide the people for the issue of mobilisation," DFCF member Yousef said. "Muslims against non-Muslims, Arabs against non-Arabs. It`s a very dangerous thing and we are not willing to go for this game." Sudan`s population of around 40 million is about 97 per cent Muslim, with most of the rest Christians. The country is a mix of ethnic groups, including Arabs, Nubians and other African ethnic minorities. Opposition leaders said at the news conference on Wednesday that the TMC response would effectively give the military control of a proposed interim government. A TMC member, Lieutenant General Yasser al-Atta, said the council was prepared to sit down with the protesters to discuss the differences. The TMC has said it is willing to agree to a government of technocrats, but that it wants to retain overall control pending elections to prevent Sudan sliding into chaos. Seeking to show it is heeding protesters` demands, the council has fired senior Bashir aides, placed paramilitary security bodies under state control and ordered the dissolution of a security agency that was linked to the former president`s ruling Islamist party. Bashir, in power for 30 years, is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes in Sudan`s western Darfur region. He is in prison and under investigation for money laundering.

Sudan's protest coalition calls for civil disobedience campaign

Sudanese student Alaa Salah emerged as a singing symbol of the protest movement that toppled leader Omar al-Bashir, and now insists she will keep demonstrating until a civilian rule is secured.&nbsp;

The 22-year-old engineering and architecture undergraduate shot to prominence when a picture of her in a white robe leading chanting crowds from atop a car in Khartoum went viral on social media.

Shortly after on April 11 the army ousted long-time leader Bashir, but since then a 10-member military council has resisted calls to hand over power.&nbsp;

Every evening Salah heads down to join the crowds still camped out around the army headquarters in the capital -- leading thousands of demonstrators in singing out their calls for change.

"We are staying at the protest site until all our demands are met," Salah said in an interview with AFP.

"We want a democratic civilian government and that all corrupt figures of the previous regime be prosecuted."

Like many gathered outside the military complex, she insists "we don't want just words, we want actions".

"Bashir was just the face of the regime, we want the entire regime to be uprooted."

'No political aspirations'

Portraits of Salah -- dubbed "Kandaka" or Nubian queen online -- have appeared on murals across Khartoum in the wake of Bashir's fall.&nbsp;

The iconic image captured her wearing the traditional flowing white headscarf and skirt, her golden full-moon earrings reflecting in the fading sunset.&nbsp;

The outfit is a nod to the lead role played by women in the protests that ended three decades of iron-fisted rule by the veteran leader.&nbsp;

"I wore this attire as part of an initiative to support the revolution," she says.

Symbolic too is the chant that she recites to raise the spirits of the demonstrators. &nbsp;

The words are those of a well-known Sudanese poem that says "a bullet does not kill, what kills is the people's silence" -- a sentiment she says aptly captures Sudan's new spirit of defiance. &nbsp;

The protest movement in the country initially erupted in December in response to tripling of bread prices by the authorities.

It swiftly mushroomed into nationwide demonstrations against Bashir led by an umbrella group of unions and opposition political groups called the Alliance for Freedom and Change.

Protest leaders from the alliance successfully mobilised supporters -- young, old, women, men, professionals and students -- by posting their calls for demonstrations online.

"I'm one of those who took to the streets based on the schedules announced by the Alliance for Freedom and Change," Salah said.

She also participated in protests on her campus as the demonstrations on the street drew a brutal crackdown from the authorities. &nbsp;

Officials say at least 65 people have been killed in protest-related violence since December.

Despite her new-found fame as the face of the uprising, Salah insists that she intends to limit her involvement in politics to these protests.&nbsp;

"I have no political affiliation. I am a normal citizen who took to the streets for the sake of our country," she said.

"I don't have any aspirations in politics ...but I like to do social work."

Sudanese student Alaa Salah emerged as a singing symbol of the protest movement that toppled leader Omar al-Bashir, and now insists she will keep demonstrating until a civilian rule is secured.

Sudanese student Alaa Salah emerged as a singing symbol of the protest movement that toppled leader Omar al-Bashir, and now insists she will keep demonstrating until a civilian rule is secured. The 22-year-old engineering and architecture undergraduate shot to prominence when a picture of her in a white robe leading chanting crowds from atop a car in Khartoum went viral on social media. Shortly after on April 11 the army ousted long-time leader Bashir, but since then a 10-member military council has resisted calls to hand over power. Every evening Salah heads down to join the crowds still camped out around the army headquarters in the capital -- leading thousands of demonstrators in singing out their calls for change. "We are staying at the protest site until all our demands are met," Salah said in an interview with AFP. "We want a democratic civilian government and that all corrupt figures of the previous regime be prosecuted." Like many gathered outside the military complex, she insists "we don't want just words, we want actions". "Bashir was just the face of the regime, we want the entire regime to be uprooted." 'No political aspirations' Portraits of Salah -- dubbed "Kandaka" or Nubian queen online -- have appeared on murals across Khartoum in the wake of Bashir's fall. The iconic image captured her wearing the traditional flowing white headscarf and skirt, her golden full-moon earrings reflecting in the fading sunset. The outfit is a nod to the lead role played by women in the protests that ended three decades of iron-fisted rule by the veteran leader. "I wore this attire as part of an initiative to support the revolution," she says. Symbolic too is the chant that she recites to raise the spirits of the demonstrators. The words are those of a well-known Sudanese poem that says "a bullet does not kill, what kills is the people's silence" -- a sentiment she says aptly captures Sudan's new spirit of defiance. The protest movement in the country initially erupted in December in response to tripling of bread prices by the authorities. It swiftly mushroomed into nationwide demonstrations against Bashir led by an umbrella group of unions and opposition political groups called the Alliance for Freedom and Change. Protest leaders from the alliance successfully mobilised supporters -- young, old, women, men, professionals and students -- by posting their calls for demonstrations online. "I'm one of those who took to the streets based on the schedules announced by the Alliance for Freedom and Change," Salah said. She also participated in protests on her campus as the demonstrations on the street drew a brutal crackdown from the authorities. Officials say at least 65 people have been killed in protest-related violence since December. Despite her new-found fame as the face of the uprising, Salah insists that she intends to limit her involvement in politics to these protests. "I have no political affiliation. I am a normal citizen who took to the streets for the sake of our country," she said. "I don't have any aspirations in politics ...but I like to do social work."

Symbol of Sudan protest movement pushes for further change

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, April 24th 2019

Protest leaders are to hold talks Saturday with Sudan's military rulers who have so far resisted calls to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-converge-on-sudan-defence-ministry-to-demand-civilian-rule-211676">transfer power to a civilian administration</a>, two leading figures in the protests told AFP.

"The military council will hold talks with the Alliance for Freedom and Change at 8:00 pm today," said Siddiq Yousef, a senior member of the umbrella group leading the protest movement.

The scheduled talks come a day ahead of plans by protest leaders to announce on Sunday a ruling civilian council that they say will replace the military body.

Another member of the Sudanese Professionals Association that launched the initial campaign against deposed president Omar al-Bashir in December also confirmed that talks will be held later on Saturday.

"Five representatives from the alliance will go today to the military council to discuss with them the transfer of power to a civilian rule," Ahmed al-Rabia told AFP.

He said if the military rulers refuse to hand over power then the protest leaders will continue with their plans of announcing a "sovereign civilian council" on Sunday.

"If they are willing to negotiate then there is a chance that tomorrow's announcement could be postponed," Rabia said.

"What we want from them is a timetable to hand over power, so things don't drag."

He said that since the ouster of Bashir the military council has held two rounds of talks with the protest leaders.

"During these talks we have felt that the military council has no desire to hand over power," Rabia said.

Protest leaders are to hold talks Saturday with Sudan's military rulers who have so far resisted calls to transfer power to a civilian administration, two leading figures in the protests told AFP.

Protest leaders are to hold talks Saturday with Sudan's military rulers who have so far resisted calls to transfer power to a civilian administration, two leading figures in the protests told AFP. "The military council will hold talks with the Alliance for Freedom and Change at 8:00 pm today," said Siddiq Yousef, a senior member of the umbrella group leading the protest movement. The scheduled talks come a day ahead of plans by protest leaders to announce on Sunday a ruling civilian council that they say will replace the military body. Another member of the Sudanese Professionals Association that launched the initial campaign against deposed president Omar al-Bashir in December also confirmed that talks will be held later on Saturday. "Five representatives from the alliance will go today to the military council to discuss with them the transfer of power to a civilian rule," Ahmed al-Rabia told AFP. He said if the military rulers refuse to hand over power then the protest leaders will continue with their plans of announcing a "sovereign civilian council" on Sunday. "If they are willing to negotiate then there is a chance that tomorrow's announcement could be postponed," Rabia said. "What we want from them is a timetable to hand over power, so things don't drag." He said that since the ouster of Bashir the military council has held two rounds of talks with the protest leaders. "During these talks we have felt that the military council has no desire to hand over power," Rabia said.

Sudan protest leaders to meet military rulers: Source

Hundreds of thousands converge on defence ministry demanding military hand over power. Watch full video to know more.

Protest in Sudan demanding handover of power to civilians

People protest in Sudan as they demand that civilians run the country rather than the military. Watch full video to know more.

Protesters in Sudan demand civilian rule

Crowds of protesters arrived at a sit-in outside the Defence Ministry in Khartoum chanting and waving flags on Monday (April 15), in a move to reinforce the demonstration after the military attempted to break it up earlier in the day.

Sudan crisis: Protesters demand immediate civilian government rule

President Omar al-Bashir, who ruled Sudan in autocratic style for 30 years, was on Thursday (April 11) overthrown and arrested in a coup by the armed forces. Watch video to know more.

Sudan military overthrown Bashir's regime, 30-year rule ends

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, April 12th 2019

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, April 11th 2019

Thousands of anti-government protesters camped outside the Defence Ministry headquarters in Khartoum on Wednesday (April 10) danced, sang and chanted slogans calling on President Omar al-Bashir to step down as security forces were deployed nearby.

Sudan sit-in protests enters fifth day outside military headquarters

Seven people on Monday died in Sudan while troops were attempting to disperse protesters staging a sit-in in the capital Khartoum, the interior minister said.

"While the demonstrations were being dispersed seven citizens died, six of them in Khartoum state and one in central Darfur," Bushara Juma told parliament, adding that about 10,000 protesters had rallied in front of the military headquarters in the capital on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-troop-killed-in-clash-with-govt-security-during-khartoum-protests-208813">A soldier was also died allegedly</a> following a shootout with pro-government security forces, reported by news agency EFE.

More than 50,000 people participated in the demonstration, demanding that they would not leave the area until President Omar al-Bashir resigned and a transitional government was formed to "move the country onto the next stage."

Protests stirred in Sudan on December 19, 2018, and have occurred almost daily since then.

At least 50 people have been killed since the action began, the movement was met with repression by security forces.&nbsp;

More than 1,000 are thought to have been arrested, among them opposition figures and activists.

(With inputs from agencies)

Seven people on Monday died in Sudan while troops were attempting to disperse protesters staging a sit-in in the capital Khartoum, the interior minister said. "While the demonstrations were being dispersed seven citizens died, six of them in Khartoum state and one in central Darfur," Bushara Juma told parliament, adding that about 10,000 protesters had rallied in front of the military headquarters in the capital on Saturday.

Seven people on Monday died in Sudan while troops were attempting to disperse protesters staging a sit-in in the capital Khartoum, the interior minister said. "While the demonstrations were being dispersed seven citizens died, six of them in Khartoum state and one in central Darfur," Bushara Juma told parliament, adding that about 10,000 protesters had rallied in front of the military headquarters in the capital on Saturday. A soldier was also died allegedly following a shootout with pro-government security forces, reported by news agency EFE. More than 50,000 people participated in the demonstration, demanding that they would not leave the area until President Omar al-Bashir resigned and a transitional government was formed to "move the country onto the next stage." Protests stirred in Sudan on December 19, 2018, and have occurred almost daily since then. At least 50 people have been killed since the action began, the movement was met with repression by security forces. More than 1,000 are thought to have been arrested, among them opposition figures and activists. (With inputs from agencies)

Seven killed during protests in Sudan: Interior Minister

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-asserts-it-has-irrefutable-evidence-of-shooting-down-pakistan-f-16-shows-radar-images-208809">IAF asserts it has 'irrefutable evidence' of shooting down Pakistan F-16, shows radar images</a>

The Indian Air Force on Monday said it has "irrefutable evidence" of shooting down an F-16 aircraft of Pakistan Air Force during the February 27 aerial combat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-troop-killed-in-clash-with-govt-security-during-khartoum-protests-208813">Sudanese troop killed in </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-troop-killed-in-clash-with-govt-security-during-khartoum-protests-208813">clash</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-troop-killed-in-clash-with-govt-security-during-khartoum-protests-208813"> with government security during Khartoum protests</a>

A Sudanese soldier on Monday died allegedly following a shootout with pro-government security forces, which were attempting to disperse protesters staging a sit-in in the capital Khartoum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-high-court-rejects-vijay-mallyas-appeal-against-the-extradition-order-208774">UK High Court rejects Vijay Mallya's appeal against the extradition order</a>

In a big blow to Vijay Mallya, London’s High Court has rejected fugitive liquor baron's application for permission to appeal against the extradition order against him.&nbsp;

Mallya, 63, had filed the application in the High Court after UK's home secretary Sajid Javid signed off on a Westminster Magistrates' Court order for his extradition to face the Indian courts back in February.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vice-admiral-bimal-verma-moves-armed-forces-tribunal-after-being-superseded-for-naval-chief-post-208768">Vice Admiral Bimal Verma moves Armed Forces Tribunal after being superseded for Naval Chief post</a>

Vice Admiral Bimal Verma on Monday moved the Armed Forces Tribunal against his supersession and appointment of Vice Admiral Karambir Singh as the next Chief of Indian Navy.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-needs-tax-cuts-in-response-to-yellow-vests-pm-208807">France needs tax cuts in response to 'yellow vests': PM Edouard Philippe</a>

The French government must implement bold tax cuts, the prime minister said Monday, after a mass public consultation called in the wake of "yellow vest" protests that shook President Emmanuel Macron.

IAF asserts it has 'irrefutable evidence' of shooting down Pakistan F-16, shows radar images The Indian Air Force on Monday said it has "irrefutable evidence" of shooting down an F-16 aircraft of Pakistan Air Force during the February 27 aerial combat.

IAF asserts it has 'irrefutable evidence' of shooting down Pakistan F-16, shows radar images The Indian Air Force on Monday said it has "irrefutable evidence" of shooting down an F-16 aircraft of Pakistan Air Force during the February 27 aerial combat. Sudanese troop killed in clash with government security during Khartoum protests A Sudanese soldier on Monday died allegedly following a shootout with pro-government security forces, which were attempting to disperse protesters staging a sit-in in the capital Khartoum. UK High Court rejects Vijay Mallya's appeal against the extradition order In a big blow to Vijay Mallya, London’s High Court has rejected fugitive liquor baron's application for permission to appeal against the extradition order against him. Mallya, 63, had filed the application in the High Court after UK's home secretary Sajid Javid signed off on a Westminster Magistrates' Court order for his extradition to face the Indian courts back in February. Vice Admiral Bimal Verma moves Armed Forces Tribunal after being superseded for Naval Chief post Vice Admiral Bimal Verma on Monday moved the Armed Forces Tribunal against his supersession and appointment of Vice Admiral Karambir Singh as the next Chief of Indian Navy. France needs tax cuts in response to 'yellow vests': PM Edouard Philippe The French government must implement bold tax cuts, the prime minister said Monday, after a mass public consultation called in the wake of "yellow vest" protests that shook President Emmanuel Macron.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Sudanese protest leaders on Saturday dismissed veteran <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-president-bashir-declares-year-long-state-of-emergency-across-the-country-199057">President Omar al-Bashir's declaration of a state of emergency </a>and vowed to keep up nationwide demonstrations until his "regime is overthrown."

Bashir's three-decade rule has been rocked by two months of protests that a deadly crackdown has failed to suppress and on Friday he imposed a nationwide state of emergency and dissolved the federal and provincial governments.

In a televised speech to the nation, the veteran leader pledged to form a government of technocrats to address the country's chronic economic woes, which have been the driving force behind the protests.

But protest organisers and their supporters in the political opposition said the state of emergency showed that Bashir's government was weakened and only its overthrow would now satisfy the protesters.

"Imposing a state of emergency shows the fear within the regime," the Alliance for Freedom and Change said&nbsp;

"We will continue with our people to take to the streets across all towns and villages until our demand has been achieved."&nbsp;

The National Umma Party, whose leader Sadiq al-Mahdi was Sudan's elected prime minister when Bashir seized power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, said the protests against his successor's iron-fisted rule would continue until he quit.

"Dissolving the government and imposing a state of emergency is nothing but a repetition of this regime's failures," it said.

"Nothing will satisfy the people who are taking to the streets except the overthrow of this regime."

Recovery now 'less likely'

Analysts said the state of emergency was an act of desperation that would make it even harder to turn round the economy and ease public anger.

"The declaration of emergency powers only makes it less likely that the economy can be revived," said Eric Reeves, a senior fellow at Harvard University, who has tracked Sudan's politics and economy for two decades.

"The regime has never understood economics...that’s why there are in the mess they are."

Sudan has been hit by a chronic shortage of hard currency to pay for imports that have worsened since South Sudan became independent in 2011, taking with it the bulk of oil earnings.

The resulting shortages in basic goods have fuelled spiralling inflation that has devastated the purchasing power and living standards of ordinary Sudanese from agricultural labourers to middle-class professionals.

The immediate trigger for the demonstrations was a government decision to triple the price of bread because of a chronic shortage of flour.

But the demonstrations swiftly mushroomed as they fed into wider grievances and the Sudanese Professionals Association -- an umbrella group of teachers, doctors and engineer -- has taken the lead in using social media to organise daily protests against the government.

It was only afterwards that the political opposition joined in, forming an alliance with the SPA.

"The imposing of emergency, unfortunately, suggests that things will get worse before they get better," said Murithi Mutiga of Brussels-based think tank, the International Crisis Group (ICG).

"It concentrates powers in Bashir's hands and sets the stage for a confrontation with the protest movement, which may become more violent than it has been."

'Repression to buy time'

Mutiga said Bashir's moves suggest he has no tools to revive the economy.

"At best he can use repression to buy some time. He has no good options to save the regime," he said.

Human Rights Watch says at least 51 people have been killed.

Officials say that 31 people have died in protest-related violence since the demonstrations began on December 19.&nbsp;

Hundreds of protesters, opposition leaders, activists and journalists have been jailed in a crackdown led by the feared National Intelligence and Security Service.&nbsp;

And the crackdown shows no sign of easing.&nbsp;

Soon after he imposed the emergency, prominent newspaper editor Osman Mirghani was detained by security agents for comments he made in a television interview criticising the move.

Bashir told Sudanese he understood the scale of the economic crisis facing the country.

"Our country is suffering from a difficult and complicated situation, the most difficult in its history," he said.

"The economic issue needs to be tackled by qualified people and for this I will form a government made of people of quality."

But the president's promise of a government of technocrats carries little credibility after so many years of economic mismanagement.

The protest alliance, which also includes the political wings of rebel groups in Sudan's three domestic war zones, has united around a platform that promises radical reforms, including an end to huge military spending on the conflicts. 
&nbsp;

Sudanese protest leaders on Saturday dismissed veteran President Omar al-Bashir's declaration of a state of emergency and vowed to keep up nationwide demonstrations until his "regime is overthrown.

Sudanese protest leaders on Saturday dismissed veteran President Omar al-Bashir's declaration of a state of emergency and vowed to keep up nationwide demonstrations until his "regime is overthrown." Bashir's three-decade rule has been rocked by two months of protests that a deadly crackdown has failed to suppress and on Friday he imposed a nationwide state of emergency and dissolved the federal and provincial governments. In a televised speech to the nation, the veteran leader pledged to form a government of technocrats to address the country's chronic economic woes, which have been the driving force behind the protests. But protest organisers and their supporters in the political opposition said the state of emergency showed that Bashir's government was weakened and only its overthrow would now satisfy the protesters. "Imposing a state of emergency shows the fear within the regime," the Alliance for Freedom and Change said "We will continue with our people to take to the streets across all towns and villages until our demand has been achieved." The National Umma Party, whose leader Sadiq al-Mahdi was Sudan's elected prime minister when Bashir seized power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, said the protests against his successor's iron-fisted rule would continue until he quit. "Dissolving the government and imposing a state of emergency is nothing but a repetition of this regime's failures," it said. "Nothing will satisfy the people who are taking to the streets except the overthrow of this regime." Recovery now 'less likely' Analysts said the state of emergency was an act of desperation that would make it even harder to turn round the economy and ease public anger. "The declaration of emergency powers only makes it less likely that the economy can be revived," said Eric Reeves, a senior fellow at Harvard University, who has tracked Sudan's politics and economy for two decades. "The regime has never understood economics...that’s why there are in the mess they are." Sudan has been hit by a chronic shortage of hard currency to pay for imports that have worsened since South Sudan became independent in 2011, taking with it the bulk of oil earnings. The resulting shortages in basic goods have fuelled spiralling inflation that has devastated the purchasing power and living standards of ordinary Sudanese from agricultural labourers to middle-class professionals. The immediate trigger for the demonstrations was a government decision to triple the price of bread because of a chronic shortage of flour. But the demonstrations swiftly mushroomed as they fed into wider grievances and the Sudanese Professionals Association -- an umbrella group of teachers, doctors and engineer -- has taken the lead in using social media to organise daily protests against the government. It was only afterwards that the political opposition joined in, forming an alliance with the SPA. "The imposing of emergency, unfortunately, suggests that things will get worse before they get better," said Murithi Mutiga of Brussels-based think tank, the International Crisis Group (ICG). "It concentrates powers in Bashir's hands and sets the stage for a confrontation with the protest movement, which may become more violent than it has been." 'Repression to buy time' Mutiga said Bashir's moves suggest he has no tools to revive the economy. "At best he can use repression to buy some time. He has no good options to save the regime," he said. Human Rights Watch says at least 51 people have been killed. Officials say that 31 people have died in protest-related violence since the demonstrations began on December 19. Hundreds of protesters, opposition leaders, activists and journalists have been jailed in a crackdown led by the feared National Intelligence and Security Service. And the crackdown shows no sign of easing. Soon after he imposed the emergency, prominent newspaper editor Osman Mirghani was detained by security agents for comments he made in a television interview criticising the move. Bashir told Sudanese he understood the scale of the economic crisis facing the country. "Our country is suffering from a difficult and complicated situation, the most difficult in its history," he said. "The economic issue needs to be tackled by qualified people and for this I will form a government made of people of quality." But the president's promise of a government of technocrats carries little credibility after so many years of economic mismanagement. The protest alliance, which also includes the political wings of rebel groups in Sudan's three domestic war zones, has united around a platform that promises radical reforms, including an end to huge military spending on the conflicts.

Protest leaders dismiss Sudan emergency, demand President Omar al-Bashir quit

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudans-bashir-fights-for-survival-as-protests-spread-193195">Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir</a>, facing near-daily demonstrations against his government, took a newly conciliatory tone with the protesters on Wednesday, saying they are mostly young with poor prospects, and pledging to release detained journalists.

Bashir's remarks appeared to be part of a new strategy to soften the government's stance toward the protests after the Defence Minister and Prime Minister made similar remarks in recent days.

"Most of the protesters are young and there are factors that drove them to take to the streets, including inflation, which led to higher prices - and the limited job opportunities that don't match the number of graduates," Bashir told journalists invited to the presidential palace for a "discussion of recent events".&nbsp;

The remarks are a dramatic contrast to Bashir's previous demand for the "rats to go back to their holes".

Bashir warned against destabilising the Sudanese state, however, saying "you can look at what happened in Libya," which has been in a state of turmoil since a 2011 civil war led to the overthrow of longstanding ruler Muammar Gaddafi.&nbsp;

The protests, which started on December 19, were triggered by price increases, limits on cash withdrawals and other economic hardships but have since shifted focus to Bashir's 30-year rule.

Police officers have used teargas and occasionally live bullets to disperse the demonstrations. Human rights activists say at least 45 have been killed. The government puts the death toll at 30, including two security personnel. Political activists, civil society members and journalists have been detained.&nbsp;

Bashir said all journalists who have been jailed in connection with the protests would be released. Activists estimate the number of journalists in prison at 16.

He also said young people's anger was fuelled by the "wrong implementation" of Sudan's public order laws. The morality laws have been criticized by human rights organizations for restricting the freedom of women by, for example, making it a crime for a woman to wear trousers.

Defence Minister Awad Mohamed Ahmed Ibn Auf said on Monday young people caught up in the protests had "reasonable ambition". On Saturday, Prime Minister Moataz Moussa described calls for better living conditions as "legitimate".&nbsp;

Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court over charges of masterminding genocide in the Darfur region, which he denies. He has been lobbying to be removed from a list of countries that Washington considers state sponsors of terrorism.

The listing has blocked the investment and financial aid that Sudan was hoping for when the United States lifted sanctions in 2017, economists say.

Sudan has been rapidly expanding its money supply in an attempt to finance its budget deficit, causing spiralling inflation and a steep decline in the value of its currency.

Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir, facing near-daily demonstrations against his government, took a newly conciliatory tone with the protesters on Wednesday, saying they are mostly young with poor prospects, and pledging to release detained journalists.

Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir, facing near-daily demonstrations against his government, took a newly conciliatory tone with the protesters on Wednesday, saying they are mostly young with poor prospects, and pledging to release detained journalists. Bashir's remarks appeared to be part of a new strategy to soften the government's stance toward the protests after the Defence Minister and Prime Minister made similar remarks in recent days. "Most of the protesters are young and there are factors that drove them to take to the streets, including inflation, which led to higher prices - and the limited job opportunities that don't match the number of graduates," Bashir told journalists invited to the presidential palace for a "discussion of recent events". The remarks are a dramatic contrast to Bashir's previous demand for the "rats to go back to their holes". Bashir warned against destabilising the Sudanese state, however, saying "you can look at what happened in Libya," which has been in a state of turmoil since a 2011 civil war led to the overthrow of longstanding ruler Muammar Gaddafi. The protests, which started on December 19, were triggered by price increases, limits on cash withdrawals and other economic hardships but have since shifted focus to Bashir's 30-year rule. Police officers have used teargas and occasionally live bullets to disperse the demonstrations. Human rights activists say at least 45 have been killed. The government puts the death toll at 30, including two security personnel. Political activists, civil society members and journalists have been detained. Bashir said all journalists who have been jailed in connection with the protests would be released. Activists estimate the number of journalists in prison at 16. He also said young people's anger was fuelled by the "wrong implementation" of Sudan's public order laws. The morality laws have been criticized by human rights organizations for restricting the freedom of women by, for example, making it a crime for a woman to wear trousers. Defence Minister Awad Mohamed Ahmed Ibn Auf said on Monday young people caught up in the protests had "reasonable ambition". On Saturday, Prime Minister Moataz Moussa described calls for better living conditions as "legitimate". Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court over charges of masterminding genocide in the Darfur region, which he denies. He has been lobbying to be removed from a list of countries that Washington considers state sponsors of terrorism. The listing has blocked the investment and financial aid that Sudan was hoping for when the United States lifted sanctions in 2017, economists say. Sudan has been rapidly expanding its money supply in an attempt to finance its budget deficit, causing spiralling inflation and a steep decline in the value of its currency.

Sudan's President Bashir softens tone, says reporters to be released

Anti-govt rallies rock Sudan

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

Sudanese journalists went on strike Thursday in the wake of deadly protests against a rise in bread prices that the government says have left 19 people dead, including two members of the security forces.

"Nineteen people lost their lives in the incidents including two from security forces" since the protests began on December 19, government spokesman Boshara Juma said on state television on Thursday.&nbsp;

Most were killed during "incidents of lootings", while 219 people were wounded, he said. Nobody has been killed in the capital Khartoum, Juma said.

Sudanese authorities had previously said that eight people have been killed in clashes, while Amnesty International has put the death toll at 37.

The Sudanese Journalists' Network said on Thursday it was striking in solidarity with protesters, who have taken to the streets in Khartoum and a host of other cities.

"We declare a three-day strike from December 27 to protest against the violence unleashed by the government against demonstrators," the network said.

Members held a sit-in outside the office of independent newspaper Al-Tayar and security agents took away eight of the journalists to an undisclosed location, the paper's editor Osman Mirghani told AFP.

A journalist among those reportedly detained said he and the others were quickly released.&nbsp;

Journalists said they were also protesting against regular confiscation of newspapers by security agents and beatings and arrests of media workers covering demonstrations.

Press personnel in Sudan frequently complain of harassment by the authorities and entire print runs of newspapers are often confiscated over articles deemed offensive by the powerful National Intelligence and Security Service.

Egypt pledges support

Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry voiced support for Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir and his government on Thursday, on a visit to Khartoum alongside Cairo's intelligence chief General Abbas Kamel.

"Egypt is confident that Sudan will overcome the present situation," Shoukry told reporters after he met Bashir at the presidential palace in Khartoum.

"Egypt is always ready to support Sudan and the ability of Sudanese people as per the government of Sudan's vision and policies," Shoukry said in what were the first remarks by a top regional Arab official in support of Bashir's government since protests began.

The "stability of Sudan means (the) stability of Egypt," he said.

Cairo and Khartoum have recently sought to iron out their differences in a bid to improve relations roiled by a longstanding border dispute and an impasse in talks over Ethiopia's Nile dam.&nbsp;

More protests urged

But activists and opposition groups in Sudan have called on people to take to the streets again over the next few days.

"We urge the Sudanese people to continue their demonstrations until success is achieved by overthrowing the regime," the Sudanese Communist Party said in a statement.

Several members of this party have been arrested by security agents since the protests started.

Adding to pressure on Bashir's governing alliance, a minister in Northern State's provincial administration resigned on Thursday.&nbsp;

The resignation by the province's health minister Abdarouf Grnas -- from the Umma Reform and Renewal Party -- is the first by a notable official since the deadly protests erupted.&nbsp;

"We have one minister in North State and we decided to withdraw him because of the violence against protesters," party head Mubarak El Fadiel told AFP.

The Umma Reform and Renewal Party is a political faction that broke away from the country's main opposition National Umma Party led by Sadiq al-Mahdi, a former premier who was toppled by Bashir in a 1989 coup.

Police and security officers remained deployed in several parts of the Sudanese capital on Thursday but no new demonstrations have been held so far.

Protests initially started in towns and villages over a week ago and spread to Khartoum, as people rallied against the government raising the price of a loaf of bread from one Sudanese pound to three (from about two to six US cents).

Demonstrators have been marching against Sudan's dire economic situation and some have called for the president to resign.

After the protests erupted Bashir vowed to make "real reforms" to tackle the country's financial difficulties.

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 per cent and the Sudanese pound has plunged in value, while shortages of bread and fuel have regularly hit several cities.

Sudanese authorities had previously said that eight people have been killed in clashes, while Amnesty International has put the death toll at 37.

Sudanese journalists went on strike Thursday in the wake of deadly protests against a rise in bread prices that the government says have left 19 people dead, including two members of the security forces. "Nineteen people lost their lives in the incidents including two from security forces" since the protests began on December 19, government spokesman Boshara Juma said on state television on Thursday. Most were killed during "incidents of lootings", while 219 people were wounded, he said. Nobody has been killed in the capital Khartoum, Juma said. Sudanese authorities had previously said that eight people have been killed in clashes, while Amnesty International has put the death toll at 37. The Sudanese Journalists' Network said on Thursday it was striking in solidarity with protesters, who have taken to the streets in Khartoum and a host of other cities. "We declare a three-day strike from December 27 to protest against the violence unleashed by the government against demonstrators," the network said. Members held a sit-in outside the office of independent newspaper Al-Tayar and security agents took away eight of the journalists to an undisclosed location, the paper's editor Osman Mirghani told AFP. A journalist among those reportedly detained said he and the others were quickly released. Journalists said they were also protesting against regular confiscation of newspapers by security agents and beatings and arrests of media workers covering demonstrations. Press personnel in Sudan frequently complain of harassment by the authorities and entire print runs of newspapers are often confiscated over articles deemed offensive by the powerful National Intelligence and Security Service. Egypt pledges support Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry voiced support for Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir and his government on Thursday, on a visit to Khartoum alongside Cairo's intelligence chief General Abbas Kamel. "Egypt is confident that Sudan will overcome the present situation," Shoukry told reporters after he met Bashir at the presidential palace in Khartoum. "Egypt is always ready to support Sudan and the ability of Sudanese people as per the government of Sudan's vision and policies," Shoukry said in what were the first remarks by a top regional Arab official in support of Bashir's government since protests began. The "stability of Sudan means (the) stability of Egypt," he said. Cairo and Khartoum have recently sought to iron out their differences in a bid to improve relations roiled by a longstanding border dispute and an impasse in talks over Ethiopia's Nile dam. More protests urged But activists and opposition groups in Sudan have called on people to take to the streets again over the next few days. "We urge the Sudanese people to continue their demonstrations until success is achieved by overthrowing the regime," the Sudanese Communist Party said in a statement. Several members of this party have been arrested by security agents since the protests started. Adding to pressure on Bashir's governing alliance, a minister in Northern State's provincial administration resigned on Thursday. The resignation by the province's health minister Abdarouf Grnas -- from the Umma Reform and Renewal Party -- is the first by a notable official since the deadly protests erupted. "We have one minister in North State and we decided to withdraw him because of the violence against protesters," party head Mubarak El Fadiel told AFP. The Umma Reform and Renewal Party is a political faction that broke away from the country's main opposition National Umma Party led by Sadiq al-Mahdi, a former premier who was toppled by Bashir in a 1989 coup. Police and security officers remained deployed in several parts of the Sudanese capital on Thursday but no new demonstrations have been held so far. Protests initially started in towns and villages over a week ago and spread to Khartoum, as people rallied against the government raising the price of a loaf of bread from one Sudanese pound to three (from about two to six US cents). Demonstrators have been marching against Sudan's dire economic situation and some have called for the president to resign. After the protests erupted Bashir vowed to make "real reforms" to tackle the country's financial difficulties. 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 per cent and the Sudanese pound has plunged in value, while shortages of bread and fuel have regularly hit several cities.

19 killed, 219 injured in Sudan protests: Government

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