Just over a year ago, President Omar al Bashir was removed from office and placed under arrest. He was deposed following nationwide protests that began in December 2018. Sudanese citizens of all faiths came together to call for systemic reforms, and a change of government. Following months of negotiations between the military and civilians, a transitional government was formed in September 2019. It’s crucial that the country’s new leaders, who have also committed to upholding freedom of religion or belief, stay true to their word and attempt to bring an end to ongoing conflicts within the country. Find out more about Sudan at csw.org.uk/sudan

Sunday 19 April

After months of negotiations between the Transitional Military Council and the Forces for Freedom and Change, a transitional government was established. Thank God that, after 30 years of oppressive rule, there is a window of opportunity for the creation of an inclusive, democratic state where the rights of all citizens are respected.

Monday 20 April

The transitional government needs to draft a new constitution, repeal laws which violate religious freedom, establish peace in war-torn regions, rebuild the economy, and support the independent inquiry into the attacks on protestors. Ask God to bless the new leaders with courage, wisdom and integrity.

Tuesday 21 April

The transitional government has made positive progressive statements and affirmed the right to religious freedom. Today, praise God for this encouraging news and pray that ministers will be able to follow up these statements with concrete action.

Wednesday 22 April

In December 2019 the US State Department removed Sudan from its list of Countries of Particular Concern. (The list names states deemed guilty of particularly severe religious freedom violations.) However, human rights defenders are concerned that this assessment was made prematurely. Pray that the international community would continue to monitor Sudan closely and speak out about ongoing rights abuses.

Thursday 23 April

Within the space of three weeks in December 2019 and January 2020, three churches in Blue Nile State were burned down twice. After the initial attacks, the Christian communities rebuilt the churches from local materials; but weeks later, the buildings were burned down again. Pray for protection and resilience for all affected by the attacks.

Friday 24 April

Although the churches reported each attack, no investigations were carried out. Ask God to move in the hearts of the local authorities and law enforcers, that they would take concrete action to ensure justice for the Christian communities.

Saturday 25 April

God of all nations, we lift Sudan to you today. We thank you for placing new leaders in power. As they seek to bring about reform, may they be guided by justice and ensure that the freedoms of all citizens, whatever their faith, are respected. Amen.

Download a printable copy of this week’s Prayer Diary.