Sudan: Ant-government protests nationwide, Jan. 30 /update 1

Event

Anti-coup activists plan to protest nationwide, including in Khartoum, Jan. 30. Protesters will call for a return to full civilian rule and demand that the military remove itself from civilian politics. Thousands of people are likely to protest in the country. Gatherings are likely near government buildings, including the Presidential Palace in Khartoum.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy heightened security 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; activists could also 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 preemptive security operations.

Context

Thousands of people have participated in large demonstrations in several Sudanese cities since the Oct. 25 military coup. Clashes regularly break out between protesters and security personnel during such gatherings, with security forces often using tear gas, stun grenades, and live ammunition to forcibly disperse activists; dozens of protesters have been killed and hundreds of others injured in the demonstrations since the military's takeover.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the likelihood of additional violence. Exercise caution near potential demonstration sites. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent protest-affected areas. Leave immediately and take refuge in a secure, nongovernmental building if violence erupts. Monitor local media for details concerning protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Follow instructions issued by local authorities.