14 Dec 2019 | 02:39 PM UTC
Sudan: Former president al-Bashir jailed for two years for corruption December 14
Khartoum court sentences ex-president al-Bashir to two years of house arrest for corruption December 14; heightened security measures and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
Former Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir has been sentenced to two years of house arrest after being found guilty of corruption and money laundering on Saturday, December 14, in a court in Khartoum. Hundreds of supporters of the former president gathered in streets near the presidential palace in the capital ahead of the verdict. Security forces were reportedly deployed in the area.
A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected in Khartoum over the coming hours.
Context
President Omar al-Bashir resigned on April 11, following days of massive anti-government protests. Protesters initially demanded increased transparency and government-led economic reforms but broadened their scope to demand the resignation of President Omar al-Bashir, who has been in power since 1989. He is also wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague for crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide in Sudan's Darfur region.
Advice
Individuals in Sudan, notably in Khartoum, are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
