Sudan: Multiple fatalities reported during June 30 protests /update 97

Event

Opposition activists have reported that at least seven people were killed and over 200 wounded during mass demonstrations across Sudan on Sunday, June 30. The Central Committee of Sudan Doctors (CCSD) recorded fatalities in Atbara and Omdurman, as well as protesters being wounded by live ammunition, tear gas, or batons in Khartoum, Khartoum North, Al Qadarif, Kassala, and El Obeid. At least ten members of the Sudanese military were also wounded in the protests, including three members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) who were reportedly shot by live ammunition. Additional casualty figures may be released in the coming hours as more information is gathered by activists and the government.

The Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA) and other opposition leaders renewed calls for peaceful demonstrations to continue until a civilian government is formed after the violence on Sunday. As of the early morning hours (local time) of Monday, July 1, specific details regarding future protests have not been released. Tensions remain high across the country and a heightened security presence is expected, particularly in Khartoum and Omdurman. Further clashes between security forces and demonstrators are likely and the situation may escalate with little warning.

Context

Tens of thousands of people participated in Sunday’s “March of Millions” rallies to demand a transition to civilian rule and to mark the 30th anniversary of the coup that brought now-ousted President Omar al-Bashir to power. Sudanese security forces and affiliated militias violently dispersed a pro-civilian rule sit-in in Khartoum on June 3. More than 128 people were killed, and hundreds wounded in the assault on the protest camp. Protesters also reported several cases of rape and other atrocities.

Following months of protests, President Omar al-Bashir was removed from office on April 11 in a military coup. The military dissolved the government and formed the Transitional Military Council (TMC) and announced it would rule until presidential elections could be held in two years. An ongoing sit-in demonstration was held until June 3 to demand increased civilian participation in negotiations. Protests have slowly resumed since then.

Advice

Individuals in Sudan, particularly Omdurman and Khartoum, are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation, business, and telecommunications disruptions and a heightened security presence, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, refrain from nonessential movement, maintain redundant modes of communication, and avoid all protests due to the risk of violence.