US Embassy says attacks on Sudan protesters ‘must stop’

KHARTOUM, Sudan (AA) – The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum has called on Sudan’s military rulers to halt attacks on protesters camped out near the army headquarters in the capital.

At least five protesters were killed and scores injured when security forces on Monday moved in to clear the main sit-in near the army headquarters in Khartoum, according to the Central Committee of Sudan Doctors.

“Sudanese security forces’ attacks against protesters and other civilians is wrong and must stop. Responsibility falls on the TMC [Transitional Military Council],” the U.S. Embassy said on Twitter.

The sit-in near the army headquarters has been the epicenter of protests demanding the TMC hand over power to a civilian government.

In early April, Sudan’s military establishment deposed long-serving President Omar al-Bashir following months of popular demonstrations against his 30-year rule.

The TMC is now overseeing a two-year transitional period during which it has pledged to hold presidential elections.

Demonstrators, however, have remained on the streets to demand that the TMC relinquish power -- at the earliest possible date -- to a civilian authority.