Sudan: Sit-in demonstrations continue in Darfur and eastern Sudan July 14 /update 2

Event

Sit-in demonstrations continued in various areas of Darfur and eastern Sudan on Tuesday, July 14, over national insecurity as well as other socio-economic issues. In Central Darfur, a sit-in in Nierteti entered its sixteenth consecutive day with protesters demanding security reforms and the protection of agriculture. A similar sit-in demonstration was held in Misterei in West Darfur for a sixth day. Thousands of protesters also gathered in Kabkabiya in North Darfur for a sixth day, addressing public grievances, demanding protection of agriculture, and requesting the dismissal of officials affiliated with the former Omar Al Bashir regime. Solidarity rallies were held in El Fasher and in East Darfur in Ed Daein, Bahr El Arab, and Yasin.

In eastern Sudan, media reports indicate that sit-in demonstrations occurred in Kassala and in El Gedaref's Hawata, over the dismissal of corrupt officials, and asphalt for a major road linking the town with Al Fao. In Atbara (River Nile state), additional protests were held for a third day.

Further demonstrations, associated disruptions, and a heightened security presence are to be expected across the country.

Context

Sit-in demonstrations calling for the expedited transfer to full civilian rule and the demobilisation of armed militias have been ongoing in several areas of the Darfur region, including in Kabkabiya (North Darfur) and Nierteti (Central Darfur), since July 5. Although initially peaceful, the demonstrations have seen several clashes and attacks on protesters in recent days, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency in the region on Monday, July 13.

Although levels of violence have decreased since the signing of a peace agreement roadmap in early 2016, tensions remain high in Darfur, and the region continues to present a range of significant security challenges. The ceasefire has reduced the level of violence in the region since 2016, but disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration successes have been limited, and multiple armed groups continue to operate in the region. Persistent violence and instability coupled with the widespread availability of firearms have also created an environment conducive to armed banditry, while persistent communal tensions have often resulted in unrest and clashes between rival armed groups. Following recent violence, a state of emergency was declared in the Darfur region due to escalating violence and unrest on Monday, July 13.

Advice

Individuals in Darfur are advised to monitor developments, avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.

The security environment in Sudan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.