African Union criticizes military takeover in Sudan

The African Union has criticised the military take-over in Sudan following the toppling of Omar al-Bashir.

The AU says the move is not the appropriate response to the challenges facing Sudan and the aspirations of its people.

The chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat cited the provisions of the Lomé Declaration of 2000 which strongly condemn any unconstitutional change of government.

Mahamat said the AU’s Peace and Security Council would be meeting to consider the situation and take the appropriate decisions.

Mahamat also called for all parties to exercise calm and utmost restraint and to respect the rights of citizens, foreign nationals and private property.

Mahamat further appealed for inclusive dialogue to create the conditions that will enable the aspirations of the Sudanese people to be met.

Omar al-Bashir was ousted from power by the military following months of civilian protests against his 30-year rule.

Sudan’s Minister of Defence Lt. General Awad Ibn Aufannounced that Bashir had been arrested and a military-led transitional government will rule for two years.

The minister also announced the suspension of the Constitution, the dissolution of the National Assembly and a three-month state of emergency for three months.