Sudan’s president orders release of all political prisoners

President Omar al-Bashir of Sudan has ordered the release of all political prisoners in the country.

According to report, the decision came in response to calls from political parties and groups that participated in the country’s ongoing national dialogue to grant detainees the opportunity to engage in the country’s political process.

“The release of political prisoners comes to strengthen the spirit of reconciliation, national harmony and peace created by the national dialogue and as part of steps to prepare a permanent constitution for the country,” a report read.

Under the banner of a national dialogue, Bashir has held meetings with opposition and rebel groups since 2015.

However, many groups have boycotted the initiative, however, demanding that Bashir first repeal what they describe as repressive security and press laws and free political detainees.

In March, Bashir ordered about 80 political detainees released, weeks after they were arrested amid countrywide protests over soaring food prices and ongoing austerity measures.

Opposition groups have said about 50 political detainees remain in prison, including prominent politician Mohamed Mokhtar al-Khatib, the leader of Sudan’s communist party

Bashir, who ruled Sudan since 1989 when he came to power in a military-backed coup, said he would not stand in elections expected in 2020 and appointed a vice-president last year for the first time.