After months of unrest following the removal of former President Omar al-Bashir from power in Sudan, the Sudanese protest leaders and military have now agreed to a power-sharing deal, paving way for the transition toward a civilian-led government. The agreement was being hailed as a key turning point after months of disagreement between both sides that saw violent clashes and deaths among the protesters. Under the agreement, a joint military and civilian council will be established to rule the country for at least three years, after which elections will follow. A cabinet appointed by the activists as well as a legislative council would also be formed during this period to ensure administrative functionality.
There remain fears that the military may renege on their promises by delaying certain clauses thus allowing them to rule longer. Regardless, a number of challenges await the transitional government as the country has been affected by post-coup chaos for several months, resulting in further decline of the economy.
The world will be watching closely as the new government is formed. Among the 18 ministers announced yesterday are four women, including Sudan's first female foreign minister, Asma Mohamed Abdallah. A former World Bank economist Ibrahim Elbadawi will serve as Finance Minister.
With World Bank and other multilateral funding is awaiting stability in Sudan before investing. The appointment of the new ministers is a promising development that may facilitate the arrival of much needed development funding.