Following the announcement of Sudan’s first cabinet since the ousting of former leader Omar al-Bashir, the African Union (AU) has lifted its suspension of Sudan. AU froze its membership in June as a punitive response to Khartoum’s bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protesters. Announcing the Suspension, AU’s Peace and Security Council the AU’s conflict-resolution body stated that transferring power to a civilian-led authority was “the only way to allow Sudan to exit the current crisis”.Sudan’s new premier Abdalla Hamdok has announced a new 18-member cabinet, which is regarded as a significant step toward civilian rule of the country after decades of authoritarianism. AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki hailed the move as “the beginning of a new era” for Sudan.
The power-sharing deal was brokered by the AU and Ethiopia and was signed last month between the protestors and the generals who seized power after ousting Al Bashir. The deal included the establishment of a civilian cabinet and legislature and a joint military-civilian sovereign council to run the country for three years until elections can be held. The new cabinet will steer the daily affairs of the country, while the council will oversee the transition. For the first 21 months, the council will be headed by a military figure. On completion of the 21 months, the leadership will be shifted to a civilian for a further 18 months.
Meanwhile, former President Bashir was arrested and is facing trial on charges of illegal acquisition and use of foreign funds.
