Sudan: Protests in major urban centers Dec. 28, 31, and Jan. 1 /update 9

Event

Protests are likely to continue in major urban centers, including the capital Khartoum, on Friday, December 28, following calls for protests to take place around 13:00 (local time), after Friday prayers. The US Embassy in Khartoum has called on its nationals to limit movements between 12:00 and 17:00.

Furthermore, demonstrations are likely to take place on December 31 and January 1 in light of the Sudanese Independence day.

Heightened security measures and localized transportation disruptions are likely around any demonstration. Clashes between supporters and security forces are likely.

Context

Anti-government protests broke out on December 19 as hundreds of protesters gathered in major urban centers - notably in Atbara (Nile River state), Al-Qadarif (Al-Qadarif state), Port Sudan (Red Sea state), and Khartoum - initially to demand increased government transparency and the implementation of anti-inflation measures. Hundreds of demonstrators marched on the Presidential Palace in Khartoum on December 25, to call for the fall of the regime. Police forces reportedly used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse the protesters in several instances. As unrest spread, curfews were implemented in at least eight cities, including in Kosti and Rabak (White Nile state), Al-Qadarif (Al-Qadarif state), Atbara, Al-Damir, and Berber (all River Nile state), as well as in Dongola and Karima (Northern state). Local authorities claim as many as 19 protesters have died since the movement began.

Advice

Individuals in Sudan are advised to monitor the situation, obey all instructions issued by the local authorities (including curfew orders), and avoid all protests as a precaution.