Sudanese Factions Initial Pact Ushering In Transitional Government

Sudan’s military rulers and main opposition coalition have initialled a constitutional declaration Sunday, paving the way to the formation of a transitional government following the overthrow of long-time leader Omar al-Bashir.

The two sides reached agreement Saturday on the shape of a transitional government in lengthy negotiations that followed Bashir’s overthrow by the army in April.

Sunday’s formalities were attended by African Union and Ethiopian mediators, who had helped broker the accord.

Ethiopian mediator Mahmoud Drir said the agreement “establishes civilian and democratic rule that seeks to build a state of law, a state of equality, a state which does not marginalise its citizens.”

The parties are expected to put their final signatures on the agreement on August 17 at a ceremony in Khartoum attended by foreign leaders.

According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the formation of a sovereign council, which will run the country during a three-year transitional