Sudan: Military forces declare State of Emergency and dissolve government amid military coup, Oct. 25 /update 4

Event

General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan announced a nationwide State of Emergency and the dissolution of the transitional Sovereign Council and the Cabinet of Minister amid an ongoing military coup Oct. 25. Burhan further added that the military will form a non-partisan administration that will remain in power until elections are held to elect a civilian government in July 2023.

Mass rallies have been ongoing in Khartoum following the arrest of Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok, four cabinet ministers, and one civilian member of the ruling Sovereign Council, Oct. 25. Protesters are demanding a return to civilian rule. A heavy military presence has been reported across the capital, along with movement restrictions; all roads and bridges leading to Khartoum have reportedly been blocked. Reports indicate that armed forces have used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse protesters gathered across Khartoum, notably outside the military headquarters. At least 12 people have been injured in the protests as of the early afternoon, Oct. 25.

Severe internet and phone disruptions are ongoing. Unconfirmed reports suggest that operations at Khartoum International Airport (KRT) have been disrupted.

Security forces will likely remain deployed across the capital in the coming days. Military deployments are also likely in other cities and towns, particularly near key government buildings and other strategic sites. Officials could impose additional movement restrictive measures in the coming days, including border closures and curfews. Opponents of the military and the coup are likely to conduct protests nationwide. There is a heightened threat of violence at all related gatherings.

Advice

Shelter in place until the situation becomes clearer or stabilizes. Consider deferring travel to Sudan until the situation stabilizes. Monitor local media and maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Avoid concentrations of security personnel. Plan for road travel delays. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure. Avoid all protests. Carry identification to facilitate passage through checkpoints.