United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the ongoing military coup in Sudan. He has also called for the immediate release of political detainees, including Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok.
A tweet from Guterres condemned the military’s illegal power grab and called for the full respect of the country’s constitutional charter in order to protect the hard-won political transition in the country.
The US Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa region Jeffrey Feltman expressed his country’s deep alarm at the military takeover that he said contravened the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people, calling it utterly unacceptable.
He added that any changes to the transitional government by force would put at risk future US assistance to that country.
Washington removed Sudan from a list of State Sponsors of terrorism last December in what was hoped to be the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship.
Some citizens take to the streets to protest against the coup:
Meanwhile, the International Relations Department in South Africa says it is concerned about the ongoing coup happening in Sudan.
It says South Africa rejects and condemns any attempt aimed at an unconstitutional change of government.
In a statement, the International Relations Department says the attempts to undermine Sudan’s political transition are worrisome.
It is calling on the military coup leaders to immediately release unconditionally Prime Minister Hamdok and other government officials.
Dirco further appeals to the security forces to exercise restraint, and protect the lives and property of Sudanese citizens.
In addition, the department says the country should continue with meaningful dialogue and engage in good faith to restore Sudan’s constitutional order.
Sudan’s government has been in limbo since former President Omar al-Bashir’s removal in 2019.-Additional reporting by Noma Bolani
