Sen. Coons files legislation to the National Defense Authorization Act to sanction Sudan's military leaders

Statement

Yesterday, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), Chairman of the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee and member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, filed the Sudan Democracy Act as an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The legislation mandates the imposition of targeted sanctions against individual actors that undermine a civilian-led democratic transition, peace, and human rights in Sudan.

"Just over two years after the peaceful revolution that brought down Sudan's brutal 30-year dictatorship, the country's military leaders have unilaterally decided to ignore the will of the people, reverse progress made by Prime Minister Hamdok's civilian government, and drag the country back to military rule," said Senator Coons. "Since the October 25 military takeover, General Burhan and Sudan's military junta have defied calls of the international community by tightening their grip on the country's ruling council and unleashing security forces to gun down dozens of peaceful protestors in the streets. This is unacceptable and unconscionable, and those responsible must be held accountable for the blood on their hands. I am introducing this legislation to punish actors undermining democracy, peace, and human rights in Sudan, and I will continue to stand by the courageous Sudanese people in their pursuit of a free, peaceful, and prosperous nation."

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