Sen. Coons’ statement on resignation of Sudan’s civilian Prime Minister

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Chair of the Senate State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs (SFOPS) Appropriations Subcommittee, released the following statement after the resignation of Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok:

"Prime Minister Hamdok worked to try to realize the goals of the revolution and build a more free, peaceful, and prosperous country. His resignation yesterday cements the October 25 military coup and exposes the intentions of Sudan's military leaders to cling to power and continue to sabotage the country's transition toward democracy.

"Millions of Sudanese have taken to the streets in recent months to reject military rule and demand a civilian-led government. Sudan's military leaders should heed their voices by handing over leadership of the Sovereign Council to civilians now and ceasing their brutal crackdown on protestors.

"I have led efforts in Congress to remove crippling historical sanctions on Sudan and appropriate over $1 billion in assistance to support the transition. My colleagues and I will continue to stand with the Sudanese people through this difficult period, and we will continue to invest in democratic progress in Sudan and punish those that threaten it."

###