Sudan: Further protests possible nationwide through mid-September following violence in Zalingei, Central Darfur State, Aug. 31

Event

Further protests and clashes are possible across Sudan through mid-September after unrest in Zalingei, Central Darfur State, left at least two people dead and 17 injured Aug. 31. Security forces opened fire on students who had gathered to demand improved access to a former United Nations-African Union Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) site. Authorities have declared a state of emergency and have imposed a nightly 18:00-06:00 curfew in Zalingei.

Related protests were held in Khartoum's Jackson area Sept. 2 to denounce the killings of the students by security forces; demonstrators also reportedly marched from the Jackson area to the Council of Ministers building in the capital.

Organizers have not yet released details of further planned protests, but such gatherings are most likely to occur in major cities such as Khartoum, Omdurman, Port Sudan, Kosti, Kassala, Ad-Damazin, El-Fashir, Al-Qadarif, and Nyala. Security personnel will probably deploy to any protest site and may use force to disperse any unruly rallies that materialize; clashes are possible. Localized traffic and commercial disruptions are likely near all protest sites.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. Liaise with trusted contacts regarding possible demonstration sites. Do not attempt to drive through areas where protesters are blocking roads. Allow additional driving time if operating near protest venues and affected areas. Leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a secure location away from government buildings if violence erupts nearby.