Formation of transitional govt in Sudan welcomed

The Kingdom yesterday welcomed the formation of the transitional government in the brotherly Republic of Sudan, which was earlier announced by Prime Minister, Dr Abdullah  Hamdok.   The Foreign Ministry affirmed that that this important step is reflective of the keenness of all parties on preserving the interests of the brotherly Sudanese people and achieving of their aspirations for progress and prosperity.

The ministry presented its sincere congratulations to the brotherly Sudanese people on this achievement, wishing the Government every success. It stressed the Kingdom’s support for any steps and measures that could guide the country to further development and prosperity and enhance its security and stability. Mr Hamdok announced on Thursday the formation of the first government since the overthrow of Omar Hassan Al Bashir in April.

The government was formed as part of a three-year power-sharing deal signed last month between the military and civilian parties and protest groups. Mr Hamdok announced the names of 18 ministers in the new cabinet and said he would name two more later. “The new government will start its work immediately in a harmonious and collective way,” Hamdok told a press conference in Khartoum on Thursday evening.

“Today, we start a new phase in our history,” he said. The new government is an important step in transition away from nearly 30 years under Al Bashir, when Sudan was afflicted by internal conflicts, international isolation and deep economic problems. However, the months since Al Bashir’s fall have been marked by tension between the powerful security forces and civilian groups that are pushing for democracy, reform and justice for those killed during crackdowns on protests.

The announcement of the cabinet had been held up by haggling over positions. Most of the 18 ministers announced on Thursday were approved earlier in the week. They include Asmaa Abdallah, who becomes the country’s first female foreign minister, and Ibrahim Elbadawi, a former World Bank economist who will serve as finance minister.