Following the ousting of Omar al-Bashir in April, the appointment of a ‘sovereign council’ may improve the country’s socio-economic woes through political stability.
Sudan’s new Prime Minister, Abdalla Hamdok, has assigned 18 members of his cabinet to facilitate a shift from authoritarianism towards democratization.
This government will lead a three-year transition under a deal between the military and civilian factions.
Sudan has suffered economic turmoil as civilians struggle to stay above the bread line
Mazin Alsheikh, Country Supervisor (Sudan), has given an update which reflects these recent developments.
Q. Has the establishment of the new sovereign council brought with it a feeling of stability in Sudan?
A. A bit, but people are still waiting for action from the council of ministers and how things will actually work in the future.
Q. Have there been celebrations?
A. Not really. This is mainly due to the current floods in Sudan and the sense that the actual change on the ground has yet to be felt.
Q. The civilian Council Members, how were they selected?
A. They were nominated by the Freedom & Change parties, but no real process or method was shared with the public.
Q. What is the feeling towards Abdalla Hamdok?
A. Very positive and he is well accepted and respected by all parties. He is a good fit for the job.
Q. How is the economic situation affecting people?
A. It is still bad, and prices are actually fluctuating towards an increase. Also, the high degree of uncertainty about how things will actually change on the ground is causing a slowdown.
Q. What is the general feeling regarding Omar al-Bashir’s impending trial?
A. People are taking it as a laughable matter and particularly his weird statements about accepting cash money from other countries. The people want him tried for the murders and corruption, not some petty bribes. The people are also demanding a trial for the factions responsible for killing protesters.
Q. Do you feel there is anything that is not being reported outside of the country?
A. No. After the fall of the regime, things became very transparent and sanctions on the press have been lifted. Everything is reflected in news outlets and on social media.
Crowds gather in Khartoum, Sudan
This new era of political rule could propel Sudan towards achieving stability and peace following decades of turbulence.
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