Abdalla Hamdok steps down following a political deadlock, as violent repression of protests leaves at least two dead in Khartoum.
Sudan’s Prime Minister, Abdalla Hamdok, announced his resignation on January 2, 2022, as the country faces severe political turmoil and escalating pro-democracy protests. The resignation comes amid the fallout from a military coup that derailed Sudan’s transition to democracy, which had been progressing since the overthrow of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
Hamdok, a former UN official who became the civilian face of Sudan’s transitional government, was reinstated in November 2021 following an agreement with the military. Despite this, he struggled to form a new cabinet and was unable to resolve the deepening political deadlock. His resignation has thrown Sudan into further uncertainty and chaos.
In a televised speech, Hamdok emphasized the need for dialogue to establish a national charter and develop a clear path toward a democratic future. He expressed that stepping down would allow for new leadership to complete the transition to a civilian government.
Hamdok’s resignation also coincided with a violent crackdown on protests across Sudan. Security forces clashed with demonstrators, with reports indicating at least two fatalities in Khartoum. The protests, which have been ongoing since the military’s takeover, have called for a return to civilian rule and the full realization of the revolution’s goals.
