Sudanese president points to “mercenaries” as protests intensify

 

 

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir stood firm on Tuesday as protests demanding his departure intensify on the backdrop of discontent with living conditions.

Sudanese al-Intibaha newspaper quoted the president addressing a rally of supporters during a visit to inaugurate local projects at the southern al-Jazirah state.

Bashir accused “mercenaries, infiltrators and traitors ” of “making use of shortage in some commodities to induce sabotage and serve foreign schemes” as he put it.

Sudan has been roiling with popular protests over nearly a week demanding the resignation of Bashir on the background of poor economic conditions.

Sudan has lost much of its oil revenues since the south seceded to independence in 2011. There is also a drop in exports and foreign reserves required to import fuel, flour and medication.

Protests over the past days have left at least 22 dead, according to officials, with several political and activist figures detained. News reports today say marches were heading towards the republican palace in the capital, Khartoum.