Sudan: Rallies continue in Khartoum Oct. 26, following Oct. 25 coup /update 5

Event

Mass rallies are ongoing in Khartoum for a second consecutive day, Oct. 26, amid calls for disobedience and a general strike by opposition groups, following a coup, which ousted Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok, Oct. 25. Anti-coup protesters are demanding a return to civilian rule despite a violent response from security forces Oct. 25; at least seven people were reportedly killed and 80 people injured. Sudan’s central bank employees have also launched an immediate strike in rejection of the military coup.

Army General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan announced Oct. 25 a nationwide State of Emergency and the dissolution of the transitional Sovereign Council and the Cabinet of Minister amid a military coup. Burhan added that the military will form a nonpartisan administration that will remain in power until elections are held to elect a civilian government in July 2023. The military also announced, Oct. 26, that trade unions and professional associations had been dissolved.

A heavy military presence continues to be reported across the capital, along with movement restrictions; all roads and bridges leading to Khartoum have reportedly been blocked. Unconfirmed reports suggest that operations at Khartoum International Airport (KRT) have been disrupted. Severe internet and phone disruptions persist as of Oct. 26.

The US Embassy in Sudan issued a security alert Oct. 25, noting that flights were not leaving the country and that US nationals should shelter in place. The British and French governments have updated their travel advice recommending against all nonessential travel to Sudan.

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.