Egypt, South Sudan discuss Sudan’s protests, Bashir’s future

Egypt President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi last week discussed with his South Sudanese counterpart, Salva Kiir Mayardit, the future of Sudan as anti-government protests continue to rock Khartoum for the sec......

President of South Sudan, Salva Kiir Mayardit (L) is welcomed by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on 10th January 2017 [Egyptian Presidency - Handout/Anadolu]

Egypt President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi last week discussed with his South Sudanese counterpart, Salva Kiir Mayardit, the future of Sudan as anti-government protests continue to rock Khartoum for the second month, the New Khaleej news site quoted informed sources as saying.

According to the sources, the two president have discussed a scenario in which Al-Bashir falls and the possibility of him stepping down.

The site said the Egyptian circles are considering the most likely candidates to succeed Al-Bashir or him not running for the upcoming presidential elections 2020.

Cairo and Juba share common fears of the ongoing protests^[1] against Al-Bashir’s regime, especially after killing^[2] and wounding of hundreds of protesters.

The sources, who asked not to be named said that Salva Kiir had asked Al-Sisi to support the South Sudanese army with military equipment, heavy weapons and training “to confront any potential threats on the border resulting from Al-Bashir’s fall”.

Al-Sisi has previously stressed that “Egypt fully supports the stability and security of Sudan, which is an integral part of Egypt’s national security.”

Sudan opposition: Protests to continue until Bashir steps down ^[3]

References

1. ^{^} ongoing protests (www.middleeastmonitor.com)
2. ^{^} killing (www.middleeastmonitor.com)
3. ^{^} Sudan opposition: Protests to continue until Bashir steps down  (www.middleeastmonitor.com)