Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok arrived in Kassala, east of Sudan, as part of his visits to different states in the country within the framework of the transitional government's plans and keen interest in managing and resolving the challenges facing the people of Sudan.
“Considering its geographical location, Kassala is a strong pillar in Sudan's economic foundation as it marks a true starting point for cross-border trade. The traits of tolerance and unity among the people of Kassala also make it a true example of peaceful coexistence.”
Upon his arrival, he was received with a wave of protests calling for the dismissal of the designated military governor and demanding that he be replaced by a civilian one, as stipulated in the constitutional document governing the transitional period.
People were also protesting against elevated prices, scarcity of bread and fuel.
Hamdok asserted that he will be listening with an “open heart to all the challenges and concerns of the people of Kassala, promising to work in coordination with Kassala's State government to tackle all issues raised.”
Sudan News Agency (SUNA) reported that Hamdok stressed the importance of the partnership between the civil and military components of the transitional government and promised that the two will work together to create a “model of peace and stability in the country during the transitional period.”
He also met with the forces of the Declaration of Freedom and Change, asserting that maintaining the revolution and agreeing on ways to govern Sudan are essential issues. He described the post-revolution phase as a historic opportunity for the success of a national project that fulfills the hopes and aspirations of the people.
The Prime Minister vowed to reach a lasting and comprehensive peace with the armed movements. He said his government inherited a legacy burdened by economic and political crises, but with the will of the people who carried out a revolution, Sudan can reach political and economic stability.
Hamdok said the government is in the process of forming the Transitional Legislative Council, calling upon the Forces to unify their powers.
During his visit, the Prime Minister inaugurated several service and urban establishments as well as development projects in the eastern states costing approximately $200 million through the Eastern Sudan Reconstruction and Development Fund.
Activist Abdel-Ilah Khalifa asserted that the protests were not against the prime minister but against the military governor and the secretariat of the Kassala state government.
He told Asharq Al-Awsat that Hamdok’s visit program was predetermined, adding that the prime minister had the opportunity to meet stakeholders, while protesters did not have the chance to voice their message.
Activists blocked the road with barricades and burning tires, refusing to open them unless they were visited by the Prime Minister, according to Khalifa.
He stated that it was agreed that they send representatives to meet with Hamdok, noting that the various crisis in the governorate made it crucial for the protesters to meet with the PM.
