Sudanese authorities must launch a prompt investigation into the killing of protesters following anti-government demonstrations, a political party said on Wednesday.

While opposition groups put the death toll from the protests at 22, the London-based rights group Amnesty International says at least 37 people have been killed in the protests against price hikes, inflation and a double in cost of bread.

The protests began initially over rising prices and shortages of food, but later escalated into calls for President Omar al-Bashir to go.

“The people of Sudan have the right to express themselves… We reject the killing of protesters and we reject the use of force,” said Idris Abdelgadir, political secretary of the Popular Congress Party (PCP).

Speaking at a press conference in Khartoum this afternoon, Idris said his party supports the ongoing protests over price hikes and a shortage of basic commodities.

“The people of Sudan have a constitutional right to engage in peaceful protests and that should be protected. We call upon the government to investigate the killing of protesters,” he stressed.

The political party called for the promotion of press freedom in Sudan and urged the government to halt censorship of news outlets. Idris slammed the government for describing the protesters as traitors and agents.

Idris confirmed that his party plans to withdraw from the current government.

The Popular Congress Party (PCP) is among several political parties which are part of the National Consensus Government led by President Omar al-Bashir.