Power-sharing talks in Sudan between the ruling military junta and the leaders of a powerful protest movement collapsed after violent clashes erupted in the capital, Khartoum, for the second time in a week.
By Vatican News
In a last-minute move on Thursday, Sudan’s military rulers suspended crucial talks with protesters on installing civilian rule in the country.
They insist more time is needed to finalise the deal as Khartoum’s security situation continues to deteriorate.
On Wednesday, army generals and protest leaders announced they had agreed upon a three-year transition period to civilian rule.
They were expected to decide on the make-up of a new body to govern Sudan following the ousting of longtime autocrat President, Omar al-Bashir, last month.
But after at least eight people were reported wounded by gunshots near a sit-in outside the army complex in the capital, Sudan’s army ruler announced negotiations would be suspended for 72 hours.
Sudan’s opposition alliance described the suspension of talks as a “regrettable” setback to efforts to forge a new democratic era.
Security forces are preparing for more unrest in the capital Khartoum and in other cities.