Sudan Human Rights Monitor Issue 20

The feature article of this issue of the Sudan Human Rights Monitor gives an overview of the ‘New Dawn’ document signed in Kampala, Uganda by members of Sudan’s political opposition coalition, the National Consensus Forces, and rebel alliance, the Sudan Revolutionary Forces. The ‘New Dawn’ document affirms the validity of either peaceful or armed means of regime change, and sets in place a framework of principles to be discussed in future negotiations between the two coalitions on the future of the country. The adoption of the ‘New Dawn’ document opened an unprecedented discussion on the future of Sudan amongst political parties, activists, and academics with a wide range of opinions on its validity.

Seven opposition leaders were arbitrarily arrested in Khartoum as they returned from the political negotiations in Uganda. One was released in January, but six remained in detention without charge or access to lawyers in early March, with one detainee in dire need of medical treatment.

This issue also provides an overview of several political developments in the country, including the alleged air missile strike on Yarmouk Military Factory south of Khartoum in October. Other analysis focuses on an deepening rift within the ruling National Congress Party between the reformist and hardliner factions of the party, thought to have been fuelled by rumours of President Bashir’s deteriorating health. An alleged attempted coup d’état in late November led to the arrests of thirteen senior political and military leaders, including the former director of Sudan’s National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS), Salah Gosh. In early March 2013, all thirteen individuals reportedly remained in NISS detention without charge.

The monitoring report provides an overview of human rights violations documented by ACJPS between October 2012 and February 2013, including cases of violent suppression of student demonstrations and incidents of freedom of expression, arbitrary arrest, and torture, including sexual violence, violations. Other incidents monitored include cross amputation, public order violations, and the death penalty. The monitoring report also includes an update on the security situation and attacks on civilians in eastern Sudan and Abyei, Darfur, and South Kordofan.

Download full issue here.

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