Sudan: Internet services restored July 9 /update 103

Event

Internet services have been restored across the country on Tuesday, July 9, following over a month of shutdown. As such, normal operations to internet service are expected.

Meanwhile, opposition and protest groups have called off their general strike and mass demonstrations scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 14. However, gatherings to commemorate those killed since the beginning of the protests are expected on Sunday. Gatherings are likely to take place in the capital Khartoum and its twin city Omdurman.

Heightened security measures are expected to continue in the coming weeks.

Context

The resumption of services follows a power sharing agreement reached on July 5, between the ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC) and opposition leaders. Under the deal, a joint council will be formed with a rotational military-civilian leader. The council will rule for around three years when new elections will be held. Both sides also reportedly agreed to form an independent technocratic government and to conduct an independent investigation into the violence that has occurred in recent weeks.

Tens of thousands of people participated in "March of Millions" rallies on June 30, to demand a transition to civilian rule. Opposition activists have reported at least seven people killed and over 200 wounded by live ammunition, tear gas, or batons. Sudanese security forces and affiliated militias also violently dispersed a pro-civilian rule sit-in in Khartoum on June 3, following which, internet service was shutdown. More than 128 people were killed, and hundreds wounded in the assault on the protest camp. Protesters also reported several cases of rape and other atrocities.

Following months of protests, President Omar al-Bashir was removed from office on April 11 in a military coup. The military dissolved the government and formed the Transitional Military Council (TMC) and announced it would rule until presidential elections could be held in two years. An ongoing sit-in demonstration was held until June 3 to demand increased civilian participation in negotiations. Protests have slowly resumed since then. On July 3, opposition Alliance for Freedom and Change leaders agreed to participate in direct negotiations with the Transitional Military Council (TMC); talks were previously suspended in May due to a dispute over whether a civilian or military official should rule the transition body.

Advice

Individuals in Sudan, particularly Omdurman and Khartoum, are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate a heightened security presence, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and avoid all protests as a precaution.