Sudan’s dismantlement committee members declared fugitives

January 13, 2025 (PORT SUDAN) – Sudan’s public prosecutor for economic crimes designated 24 former Empowerment Removal Committee (ERC) members as fugitives on Monday. The individuals, who include prominent figures in the anti-war coalition, Tadadum, face charges related to their work with the committee.

Established after Omer al-Bashir’s ouster in 2019, the ERC aimed to dismantle the former regime’s infrastructure and recover stolen assets. However, it faced criticism for alleged political bias and overreach.

After the October 2021 coup, authorities detained committee leaders, including deputy chairman Mohamed al-Faki Suleiman, who was also a member of the Sovereign Council.

A statement seen by Sudan Tribune demands that the 24 individuals surrender to authorities within a week. Those named include former secretary-general Al-Tayeb Osman Youssif, rapporteur Khalid Omer Youssif, and other senior officials.

The prosecutor’s office cited violations of Sudan’s penal code and the Dismantling Law, including breach of trust, criminal possession, and corruption.

This development follows recent allegations of corruption and favouritism towards the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) by those who oversaw the Dismantling Committee.

Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan suspended the committee after the 2021 coup and established a new body to review its decisions, overturning many.

Labelling these individuals as fugitives could heighten tensions between the military and civilian political factions, further complicating Sudan’s precarious transition.