Sudan’s president, Omar al-Bashir, has ordered the release of all political prisoners in detention centres across Sudan.
Bashir gave the order during his speech at the opening of the new parliamentary session on Monday:
“We offer these salutations knowing that all Sudanese people are looking forward to the next step which we began by calling all conflict groups for an inclusive dialogue, thus confirming the common bond between the sons of one nation, adhering to national interests rather than other considerations, and contributing to address and resolve issues that satisfy the people of Sudan.”
He called for people to maintain the security and stability of the country and to pave the way for consensus and compromise on a new national constitution.
Bashir claimed that, “The political parties’ response was very positive and encouraging,” before adding that the sons of one nation always welcome any call with nationalistic spirit.
The president confirmed that his government will engage with all political bodies and civil society groups without exception,even including groups that have taken up arms against his government.
All rights and freedoms in self-expression will be upheld in Sudan for both individuals and groups and this is demonstrated, he claimed, by the release of the political prisoners.
The move is expected to lead to the release of ‘New Dawn’ detainees, a large group of women from Kadugli, South Kordofan who are detained in El Obeid for alleged linked to the SPLM-N, as well as Darfur students and activists.
Photo: Omar al-Bashir (smc.sd)