Sudan’s draft electoral law will deepen poll fears

Subject

Sudan's draft electoral law.

Significance

The ruling National Congress Party (NCP) is poised to table a controversial draft electoral law ahead of elections scheduled for 2020. President Omar al-Bashir is also widely expected to seek a constitutional amendment to allow him to run for office again, after the NCP nominated him as its party candidate in August. Opposition parties have rejected the electoral law, which they see as evidence of Bashir’s intention to manipulate the process to ensure his victory.

Impacts

• Some opposition and political forces may look to forge new political coalitions or alliances to increase their leverage.
• Bashir’s intransigence over his re-election will strain relations with key foreign partners such as the United States.
• Deep economic crisis and hardships for ordinary Sudanese will amplify domestic discontent with the NCP’s rule.