Sudan: Sudanese Professionals Association to protest nationwide, Feb. 28

Event

Members of the Sudanese Professionals Association plan to protest across Sudan Feb. 28. Gatherings are likely in major urban centers, including Khartoum, Omdurman, and Port Sudan. In Khartoum, protesters are likely to gather along major thoroughfares and near government buildings, including the Presidential Palace. The purpose of the action is to demand a return to civilian rule.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy a heightened security presence along key thoroughfares and near government buildings during protests. Security forces will likely close bridges in Khartoum to prevent protesters from gathering; activists could also block roads. Clashes between protesters and security forces will probably accompany gatherings; security forces will likely attempt to forcibly disperse anti-coup activists.

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.