Port Sudan protesters demand expulsion of UAE ambassador
December 1, 2023 (PORT SUDAN) – Sudanese protesters took to the streets of Port Sudan following Friday prayers to demand the expulsion of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) ambassador.
The protesters accused the UAE of supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group that has been at odds with the Sudanese army.
The demonstration prompted security authorities to close off streets in Port Sudan, reportedly to prevent protesters from reaching the UAE ambassador’s residence. Protesters chanted slogans in support of the army and against the UAE, including “One army behind the leader” and “No, no to the UAE.”
Port Sudan became the administrative capital of Sudan in mid-April after the outbreak of fighting between the army and the RSF in Khartoum, the capital. The federal government and army leadership relocated to Port Sudan, which is home to the country’s main port.
The protest against the UAE followed a social media campaign by army supporters urging the army leadership to take a stand against the UAE. Last week, activists organized a small protest in Port Sudan demanding the expulsion of the Emirati ambassador.
In a speech several days ago, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Army Yasir Al-Atta fiercely attacked the UAE, accusing it of providing weapons to the RSF through airports in Chad, Central Africa, and Uganda.
The Sudanese senior official described the UAE as a “mafia state” that follows in the footsteps of evil.
Despite Atta’s statements, the Sudanese government has yet to take any action against the Emirati ambassador. Press reports on Thursday indicated that the Chairman of the Sovereign Council and Commander-in-Chief of the Army cancelled his participation in a climate summit hosted by the UAE.
(ST)