Believers Charged for Protesting Takeover

Morning Star News 19 April 2018

The SPEC church building in Omdurman, Sudan.
Photo: Morning Star News

In April 2017, a group of Christians had gathered to prevent the confiscation and sale of a church-owned school in Omdurman. The three-day protest ended when police arrested a number of the men. Soon afterwards, an armed mob attacked the women remaining at the scene. Several men rushed to aid these women and, in the mayhem, a church elder named Younan Abdullah was tragically killed. For more information, go to this page.

In the days and months that followed, many of the Christians who were arrested have been either released or fined. On April 11th, 2018, a court ordered that four of those men be charged with causing physical harm to police and supporters of the Muslim businessman who was attempting to take control of the church-owned school property.

If convicted, each of the accused could face up to six months in prison and a fine. The lawyer representing them is hopeful that the outcome will result in no more than a fine. The names of those charged are Azhari Tumbara, Muna Matta, George Adam and Kudi Abderhman. A verdict is expected to take place within the next few days.

Pray that the Holy Spirit will serve as an Advocate on behalf of the accused men who tried to prevent the takeover of the church property. May the "peace of God, which surpasses all understanding" (Philippians 4:7), guard the hearts and minds of these believers and others throughout Sudan who are facing ongoing pressure from the government and those in opposition of their faith. Ask the Lord to help His followers to be faithful witnesses, responding in a manner that is honouring to Him, so many in their communities will experience His love and saving grace.

Country Information
Population
49,197,555 (2023 est.)

Ethnicity (%)
Sudanese Arab (70), Fur, Beja, Nuba and Fallata (30)

Religion
Sunni Muslim, small Christian minority

Leader
President (to be determined)
Transitional military leadership in place

Government type
Presidential republic

Legal system
Mixed legal system of Islamic law and English common law

Source: CIA World Factbook
Pray for Sudan
Pray that Christians throughout Sudan will continue to entrust themselves to Christ and preach the Gospel boldly, knowing Jesus is the ruler over the kings of the earth (2 Timothy 1:7-12, Revelation 1:5).

Pray also that peace, justice and religious freedom may be firmly established.

Sudan News

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Photo: CSW

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A church in Sudan.
Photo: Flickr / David Stanley (cc)

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A group of people in Sudan.
Photo: Wikipedia / Nina R (cc)

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Photo: VOMC

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