Sudan’s military rulers have once again delayed signing an agreement that would transition the nation from military to civilian rule. Thursday’s postponement prompted a new round of protests in the capital Khartoum and other cities. The agreement would allow for elections and the formation of a civilian government after over a year of military rule following the October 2021 coup. Security forces fired tear gas at massive crowds as protesters were heard chanting, “No militia can rule a country.” Protesters also marked the fourth anniversary of a 2019 sit-in that led to the overthrow of longtime authoritarian President Omar al-Bashir.

Hanady Awad: “For the martyrs who have given their lives for this country, the protest will reach its end, God willing, and we will keep going until we reach a civilian democratic rule, and without the return of any totalitarian system in Sudan again.”

Many have criticized the deal for excluding the establishment of a transitional justice system or the implementation of key military reforms.