United States Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan urged Sudan’s transitional military council to move expeditiously toward a civilian-led interim government.
Sullivan, who spoke via phone with the TMC chairman General Abdel Fattah el-Burhan, expressed support for the Sudanese people’s aspirations for a free, democratic and prosperous future.
Sullivan encouraged the TMC to reach an agreement with the Forces for Freedom and Change, representing civilians and protesters, which reflects the will of the Sudanese people.
Sullivan also reiterated the United States’ expectation that the TMC respects the human rights of all persons. Additionally, the TMC was encouraged to allow peaceful protest and the freedom of expression consistent with Sudan’s human rights obligations.
Demonstrations in Sudan have continued after former president Omar al-Bashir was ousted on April 11 as protesters demand the military hands over power to a civilian-led authority. A doctors’ committee linked to the Alliance of Freedom and Change on Monday said ninety protesters have been killed in protest-related violence since December.
The TMC has resisted the pressure so far but has said it was ready to accept a civilian government of technocrats to run the country during an interim period of up to two years that would prepare for a presidential election.
African leaders agreed in April to give the TMC three months to implement democratic reforms.
