WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement after Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir was removed from office following months of protests. 

“After four months of the biggest political demonstrations in a generation, the Sudanese army removed President Omar al-Bashir from power, ending his 30 year reign over the country.

“As members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, we commend the bravery and resilience of the people of Sudan and stand with them in their pursuit of inclusive and representative civilian leadership. A military takeover, suspension of the constitution, and draconian restrictions on civilian life are not the answer to the challenges facing the country. Following the lead of the Sudanese people, we urge a swift transition to inclusive civilian authority to oversee the period leading up to democratic elections.

“Finally, we strongly urge all security forces to respect peaceful demonstrations and ensure the protection of citizens. We are monitoring developments in Sudan closely.”