Sudan: At least five protesters killed in North Kordofan state July 29 /update 112

Event

Security forces reportedly opened fire on protesters in Obeid (North Kordofan state) on Monday, July 29, killing at least five people and wounding several others. Dozens of students were reportedly marching in the city amid a demonstration against military rule when soldiers fired indiscriminately into the crowd. Officials subsequently imposed an indefinite curfew from 21:00 to 06:00 (local time) across North Kordofan. 

Associated rallies are possible over the coming days in other major urban areas, including Khartoum, Khartoum North, and Omdurman, in response to the violent crackdown in North Kordofan. A heightened security presence and other localized disruptions are possible during the protests; clashes with security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Political tensions remain high in Sudan after military officials claimed on July 24 that another coup d'état attempt against ruling generals had been foiled. At least a dozen people were arrested, including high-ranking military officers and leaders of the Islamic Movement and the National Congress Party. The alleged coup attempt marks the second coup d'état plot thwarted this month in Sudan and comes as the ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC) and opposition-led groups are working to settle a power-sharing deal that would outline a three-year transition process that culminates with elections.

The TMC came to power after removing President Omar al-Bashir from office on April 11 following months of protests. Initially, the council announced it would rule until presidential elections could be held in two years. A sit-in demonstration was held in Khartoum until June 3 to demand increased civilian participation in negotiations, when it was violently dispersed by security forces. On July 3, opposition Alliance for Freedom and Change leaders agreed to participate in direct negotiations with the TMC; talks were previously suspended in May due to a dispute over whether a civilian or military official should rule the transitional body.

Advice

Individuals in Sudan are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate a heightened security presence, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, refrain from nonessential movement, and avoid all protests due to the risk of violence.