Turning point in Sudan as Bashir supports new president to lead ruling party

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Thursday expressed his support for a leader of his ruling party for the presidency in the 2020 elections in a speech that was broadcast by local TV channels.

“I will support the nomination of the governor, Mohamed Tahir Ayala, to the post of president if nominated by the citizens of the state in the upcoming elections,” Bashir said.

He pointed out that Sudan did not witness the required development. Bashir linked the failure of the state to conflicts between some of the political leaders and their lack of interest in the development process.

“However, I chose the governor to be a guardian for his ability to work and achieve service projects that lack the mandate,” he added.

In a related context, Bashir promised to work on water supply and sanitation projects.

Last week, he had renewed his previous pledges to give up power with the end of his second presidential term in 2020, and hand over Sudan to his successor in a smooth transfer of power.