‘USA will hold to account spoilers who undermine Sudan democratic progress’

Welcoming the December 5 signing of the initial framework political agreement in Khartoum, the US State Department has expanded its visa restriction policy for “individuals undermining the democratic transition in Sudan”.

In a press statement yesterday, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, welcomes the signing of the initial political framework agreement, hailing it as “an essential first step toward forming a civilian-led transitional government and establishing constitutional arrangements for a transitional period”.

Blinken says that the US supports the plans by Sudanese civilian parties and the military to hold inclusive dialogues on outstanding issues before concluding a final agreement and transferring authority to a civilian-led transitional government, and calls for “quick progress toward these ends”.

‘The USA will hold to account spoilers who attempt to undermine or delay democratic progress in Sudan…”

In support of the Sudanese people’s demands for freedom, peace, and justice under a democratic government, and recognising the fragility of democratic transitions, the United States will hold to account spoilers – whether military or political actors – who attempt to undermine or delay democratic progress, the Secretary of State says.

“To that end, I am announcing today an expansion of the current visa restriction policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) (or “3C”) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to cover any current or former Sudanese officials or other individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic transition in Sudan, including through suppressing human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the immediate family members of such persons.”

‘We urge Sudan’s civilian leaders to negotiate in good faith and place the national interest first…’

Blinken explains that “this action expands the Department’s tools to support Sudan’s democratic transition and reflects our continued resolve to support the people of Sudan in their manifest desire for a responsive and responsible civilian-led government. Just as we used our prior visa restrictions policy against those who undermined the former civilian-led transitional government, we will not hesitate to use our expanded policy against spoilers in Sudan’s democratic transition process.”

In conclusion, Blinken reiterates his call to Sudan’s military leaders to cede power to civilians, respect human rights, and end violence against protestors. “At the same time, we urge representatives of Sudan’s civilian leaders to negotiate in good faith and place the national interest first,” he says.