Sudan: Anti-coup protests, associated clashes likely to continue across country through at least late December /update 13

Event

Anti-coup protests and accompanying clashes remain likely across Sudan through at least late December, as local activists have called for additional demonstrations and strikes Dec. 25 and Dec. 30. Thousands of people have participated in large demonstrations in several Sudanese cities since the Oct. 25 coup d'etat, demanding that the country's military leadership transfer political power to civilian authorities. Clashes regularly break out between protesters and security forces during such demonstrations, with security forces often attempting to forcibly disperse demonstrators.

Notably, security forces reportedly fired tear gas, stun grenades, and live ammunition at protesters who marched to the Presidential Palace in Khartoum during a large, related demonstration Dec. 19, wounding dozens of people. Protest activity was also recorded in other cities, including in Omdurman, Khartoum North, Port Sudan, Atbara, and Kassala, among others; the Dec. 19 demonstrations marked the third anniversary of the uprising that ultimately resulted in the ouster of former President Omar al-Bashir.

Heightened security measures are almost certain along key thoroughfares and near government buildings during protest periods. Security forces will likely close bridges in the Khartoum area to prevent protesters from gathering; protesters are also likely to block roads. Disruptions to urban and intercity road travel, airports, border crossings, business operations, and telecommunications are likely amid significant bouts of civil unrest or authorities' security-related operations.

Context

Under the direction of General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, military forces staged a coup Oct. 25, deposing Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok. General al-Burhan subsequently declared a nationwide state of emergency and dissolved the Sovereignty Council of Sudan, which had served as the country's transitional government. Clashes between security forces and anti-coup protesters have since left dozens of people dead and wounded.

The military then released Hamdok from house arrest and reinstated him to political office Nov. 21. Hamdok is expected to lead a technocratic, civilian government under military oversight during a transitional period; this period would culminate with a handover of power to an elected government, presumably following elections in 2023.

Despite the agreement, anti-coup protests have continued into December as key civil society groups, including the Sudanese Professionals' Association (SPA) and the Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC), have roundly rejected the deal.

Advice

Consider deferring travel to Sudan until the current situation stabilizes. Individuals in-country should limit movement on days with scheduled protests and avoid large public gatherings and security personnel concentrations. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce events in advance. Refuel vehicles when safe to do so. Purchase/obtain essential goods when available. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure and allow additional time to reach destinations. Carry identification to facilitate passage through checkpoints. Regularly review and update contingency plans with trusted contacts. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.