Sudan's Minister of Justice Mohamed Ahmed Salim acknowledged concerns over a state of emergency declared by President Omar al-Bashir, which has drawn criticism for limiting civil liberties. The measure, imposed on February 22, aims to suppress ongoing anti-government protests that began in December over economic grievances.
Salim told parliament the emergency declaration risks curbing public freedoms, though lawmakers are expected to approve the measure on March 11. Bashir's ruling National Congress Party holds a majority in the 428-member assembly, ensuring the measure's passage.
The state of emergency has enabled the president to dissolve provincial governments, appoint military and intelligence officials as governors, and establish special courts to prosecute protesters. Over 300 demonstrators have been arrested since its implementation, with eight receiving jail sentences in the first trials by emergency courts.
UN Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet condemned Sudan's crackdown, citing excessive force, arbitrary detentions, and torture. Official figures cite 31 protest-related deaths, while Human Rights Watch reports at least 51 fatalities. Protesters have demanded Bashir's resignation, accusing his administration of economic mismanagement amid inflation and currency shortages.
