Sudan announces curfews, shuts schools amid protests

By Mohammed Amin

KHARTOUM (AA) – States of emergency and curfews were announced in more states in Sudan Friday as protests over economic conditions continued for a third day.

Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Al-Sadig Al-Hadi announced the closure of all public and private universities in Khartoum State.

Classes were also suspended indefinitely at all schools and higher education institutions in White Nile, Gadarif and Northern states.

White Nile State declared a state of emergency, following in the footsteps of River Nile, Gadarif and Northern states due to the demonstrations.

Eyewitnesses told Anadolu Agency by phone that protests are continuing in the cities of Atbara and Barbar in River Nile State, Dingola in Northern State and Kosti, Rabak and Algazira Aba in White Nile State.

The witnesses said protesters set fire to the ruling party’s office in Rabak city in White Nile.

Protests also erupted in many neighborhoods in the capital Khartoum, but the police dispersed the demonstrators using tear gas and rubber bullets.

The death toll from the ongoing protests has risen to eight, with six people killed in Gadarif State and two in River Nile State.

On Friday, Khartoum warned demonstrators against damaging public or private property.

Sudanese opposition figures are urging the public to hit the streets, with the Sudanese Congress Party warning the authorities against using violence against unarmed protesters.

Violent demonstrations have rocked different parts of the country for the last two days, with protesters decrying soaring inflation and acute bread shortages.