Sudan generals, protest leaders sign transition deal

Khartoum,

Sudan's military council and protest leaders on Saturday signed a "constitutional declaration" that paves the way for a transition to civilian rule.

The agreement was signed by Mohamed Hamdan ‘Hemeti’ Dagolo, deputy chief of the military council, and Ahmed al-Rabie, representing the Alliance for Freedom and Change protest umbrella group, an AFP reporter said.

Heads of state, prime ministers and dignitaries from several countries attended the ceremony in Khartoum. The prime ministers of Ethiopia and Egypt, and the South Sudanese and Kenyan presidents were among regional leaders in attendance.

The landmark power-sharing agreement ushers in a new governing council, including both civilians and generals, to pave the way towards elections and civilian rule.

Dagolo -- widely regarded as Sudan's most powerful man -- has pledged to abide by its terms.

Under the deal, a sovereign council, consisting of six civilians and five generals, will run the country until elections.

The two sides have agreed to rotate control of the council for just over three years. A prime minister nominated by civilians is due to be appointed next week.

After taking the oath of office before the Sovereign Council, the elected prime minister will announce the Cabinet.

Former Deputy Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Abdalla Hamdok, is being touted as a possible candidate for the post of prime minister. 

Sudan has seen pro-democracy protests and repression since long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was ousted in April, with citizens calling for civilian rule.

-Reporting by BBC, AFP and The EastAfrican.