Sudan has been through turbulent times since Omar al Bashir’s removal in April 2019. Nationwide demonstrations were followed by the advent of the official transitional administration, and its subsequent fall following a military coup in 2021. Ordinary citizens united in their desire for change, only to have their hopes for democratic transition thwarted at every turn, and often with violence.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/sudan
Sunday 22 January
Since the military coup in 2021, the limited advances in human rights and legal reform made under the transitional administration have been lost. There has been a systematic rollback of rights across the board. Ask God to restore Sudan’s fortunes and deliver the nation from oppressive military rule.
Monday 23 January
Hostility towards Christian communities in Central Darfur has increased since the October 2021 coup. The increasing threats and violence forced multiple churches to close last year. In each case, church leaders took the decision to close their places of worship for the safety of their communities. Pray for wisdom, courage, and strength for church leaders across Sudan.
Tuesday 24 January
Four men from central Darfur who reportedly converted to Christianity were arrested in June last year. They were detained multiple times, subjected to inhumane treatment, charged with apostasy despite the transitional government removing it from the criminal statute books. Their case was later transferred to the criminal court before the General Prosecutor decided to drop the charges. Pray for the men and vulnerable religious communities that may be unfairly targeted by those in authority because of their beliefs.
Wednesday 25 January
In the face of increasing hostilities and a rollback of human rights, we have been urgently and consistently calling on the international community to raise these cases with Sudan’s military leaders, urging them to respect, protect and fulfil these rights for every religious and belief community. Pray that our advocacy interventions would be effective and would contribute towards lasting change.
Thursday 26 January
Give thanks for the work of Sudanese activists, human rights defenders and NGOs who continue to work together for freedom, democracy and human rights in Sudan, despite the challenges and risks to themselves and their loved ones.
Friday 27 January
‘Give me a sign of your goodness.’ Psalm 86:17
Since 2018, Sudan’s citizens have taken to the streets believing for a better future, resolving to persist until they see lasting change. Despite hopes being repeatedly dashed, they continue to stand for what they believe in. Pray this verse over the nation, asking God to give Sudan a sign of his goodness and a better future.
Saturday 28 January
Lord, give a sign of your goodness to the Sudanese people and, as we enter a new year, renew their hope that a better future is possible. Protect those who work for justice and freedom, strengthen those who face injustice daily, and embolden a new generation of activists to believe that freedom is possible. Amen.