Large-scale protests in Port Sudan over power outages and the presence of the Joint Force

In Port Sudan, the eastern region of the country, hundreds of protesters staged a large demonstration in front of the Electricity Authority buildings to protest the ongoing power outage for more than a week.

The protest was led by the civil society leader, Shaiba Dirar, who leads an alliance of a number of eastern Sudanese Movements supporting the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). This particular development, according to eyewitnesses who spoke to the press, is a sign of an imminent flare.

Furthermore, Shaiba Dirar granted the de facto authorities in Port Sudan a 72-hour deadline to restore power.

According to witnesses, the escalating tensions, deteriorating services, and the continued demands issued by residents of the region for the withdrawal of the Joint Force -that consists of Darfuri Movements- from the state due to their ongoing violations have exacerbated the situation.