Sudan's military coup leader steps down

International Desk: The head of Sudan's military council has stood down a day after leading a coup that toppled long-time leader Omar al-Bashir amid a wave of protests.

Defence Minister Awad Ibn Auf announced his decision on state TV. He named as his successor Lt Gen Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman Burhan.

It comes after protesters refused to leave the streets, saying the coup leaders were too close to Mr Bashir.

The army has said it will stay in power for two years, followed by elections.

Mr Bashir's downfall followed months of unrest that began in December over rising prices.

Mr Ibn Auf was head of military intelligence during the Darfur conflict in the 2000s. The US imposed sanctions on him in 2007.

Protesters in Khartoum celebrated his departure, with people chanting phrases like "it fell again".

The Sudan Professionals Association, which has been spearheading the protests, said Mr Ibn Auf's decision to step down was a "victory" for demonstrators.

They are demanding a transition to civilian rule before they return home.

The new man in charge is also a top military figure, but AP reports that his record is cleaner than other Sudanese generals. He is also said to have met with protesters to hear their views.

Mr Bashir has been indicted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity over the Darfur conflict.

Agencies


risingbd/Dhaka/Apr 13, 2019/Nasim