As Protests Increase, Sudanese President Al-Bashir Seeks Assistance from Egyptian President Al-Sissi

The president of Sudan, Omar al-Bashir, has been in power since 1989 after seizing power in a bloodless coup. This means he has been at the country’s helm of affairs for about 30 years. 

The problem, however, is that he does not plan on relinquishing power any time soon. This has angered youths in the country, who have taken to the streets to voice their displeasure and dissatisfaction.

The president on his part has not hidden his contempt for the young men and women who have been protesting to demand an end to his three-decade rule.

Speaking recently to soldiers, the president – who himself was a former paratrooper referred to the protesters as “rats” and said the "rats to go back to their holes;" insisting that he will only step down from office for another soldier.

"They said they want the army to take power. That's no problem. If someone comes in wearing khaki, we have no objection.

"When the army moves, it doesn't move in a vacuum. It doesn't move in support of traitors. It moves in support of the homeland," he was quoted as saying in Arabic.

The protesters have not relented in their efforts or dropped their demands either. In fact, they have increased their protests as they continue to call for the president’s seat. 

A government official report said 30 people have lost their lives during the demonstrations, while the opposition says that at least 50 people have died.

Reports making the rounds say that Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir will seek assistance from Egypt president, Abdel Fattah al-Sissi in curbing the protests. To facilitate this, President Omar al-Bashir will travel to Cairo on Sunday to meet his Egyptian counterpart, the official Sudanese news agency, SUNA reported.

“President Omar al-Bashir will discuss regional issues of interest to both countries with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi,” the agency said.

The protest is led by the Association of Sudanese Professionals and they have called for fresh protests.

The main opposition leader in the country, Sadek al-Mahdi has expressed support for the protesters saying it was high time the president vacated office.

Some observers have said that the meeting with President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi is not a right step in the right direction as he should be more concerned with coming to terms with the protesters and consider their demands.

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