From The Ground: Sudan Uprising

Written By Mark Hackett

Widespread protests that erupted in Sudan on December 19 over worsening economic conditions have morphed into calls for the kleptocratic and murderous Bashir regime to be removed from power. Sudan's dictatorship has responded by unleashing its genocidal militias, National Intelligence "ghost troops," and heavily-armed police against unarmed protesters. The deadly use of live fire and tear gas by government forces against Sudanese citizens is widespread and worsening. 

Over the past few days, the situation in Khartoum has grown increasingly tense. Some army units have refused to obey orders and, in a few cases, forcibly stepped in to protect protesters from Bashir's brutal security forces. There are rumors that the regime has begun arresting some mid and lower-level army officers for refusing to attack unarmed protesters. Between the mass and relentless protests, widening fissures within the government and various security forces, and a floundering international response, the situation is now changing hourly with no clear end in sight. Since Saturday, 22 Sudanese have lost their lives due to government violence.

In an attempt to cover up its crimes against Sudanese demanding their basic rights, as well as prevent protesters from better organizing, the Bashir regime has attempted to block access to social media sites. Tech-savvy Sudanese citizens have responded by using VPNs to get their stories out into the world. Below are some of their videos, photos, and stories they have shared online. We warn you that some of the images are disturbing and difficult to look at:

Mark Hackett
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