At least one demonstrator has been killed as security forces broke up a protest in Sudan’s capital Khartoum, as thousands took part in rallies rejecting military rule following a coup 11 weeks ago.
The coup, led by army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan on October 25, derailed a power-sharing transition between the military and civilians that had been painstakingly established in the wake of the overthrow of longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
Security forces fired tear gas as pro-democracy protesters headed towards the presidential palace on Sunday, amid roadblocks seeking to prevent people converging there and at army headquarters – the epicentre of mass demonstrations that forced al-Bashir out.
Medics said at least one person was killed as security forces cracked down on protesters.
The Central Committee of Sudanese Doctors (CCSD), an independent group of medical workers, said a 26-year-old man was killed after being struck in the neck by a tear gas canister.
Protesters also rallied in Omdurman, Khartoum’s twin city, as well as northern Khartoum. “Tear gas has been used against thousands of protesters in central Khartoum. They were marching towards the presidential palace. They tried to reach the palace but couldn’t, as usual. They were pushed back security forces,” Vall said.
“In Omdurman, the crowd is picking up. They are behind schedule. They usually start early. They, too, are trying to march towards central Khartoum. To get there they will have to cross bridges which are closed and manned by security forces. Security forces are waiting for them in big numbers,” he added.
The protests since the coup – one of several power grabs in Sudan’s post-independence history – has been met with a crackdown that has killed at least 62 people, according to medics.
Authorities have repeatedly denied using live ammunition in confronting protesters and insist dozens of security personnel have been wounded during demonstrations that have often “deviated from peacefulness”.
Medics in white coats were seen joining Sunday’s rallies to protest against the security forces’ storming of hospitals and medical facilities during previous demonstrations.
Jazeeral