Sudan: Anti-government protest planned in Khartoum Feb. 7

Event

Anti-coup activists plan to protest in Khartoum Feb. 7. Gatherings are likely near the Presidential Palace and other government buildings. Protesters will demand a return to civilian rule. Several hundred people are likely to protest. Protests are also possible in Omdurman and other urban centers nationwide.

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 coup d'etat, demanding that the country's military leadership transfer political power to civilian authorities. 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 civilians have been killed and thousands of others wounded in the protests since the military's takeover.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the likelihood of associated violence. Exercise caution near likely demonstration sites. 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.