Sudan Struggles to Address Corruption After Bashir’s Ouster

Khartoum, Sudan - Almost two years have passed since President Omar al-Bashir was toppled from power in Sudan following widespread protests. However, despite the transitional government’s promises to tackle corruption, little has changed on the ground.

A Legacy of Corruption

The Bashir regime was notorious for its corrupt practices, with many officials amassing vast fortunes through embezzlement and bribery. After his arrest and sentencing, it was revealed that he had amassed a fortune of nearly $113 million, including $25 million gifted by Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.

International Conventions

Despite signing international conventions on anti-corruption, Sudan has yet to ratify them, leaving the country with limited legal framework to combat graft. The transitional government has promised to build a new legal framework for anti-corruption, but progress has been slow due to systemic corruption inherited from the Bashir era.

Challenges in Defining Corruption

One of the key challenges is defining what constitutes corruption in Sudan’s Penal Code. The code lacks clear definitions of bribery, money-laundering and other corrupt practices, making it difficult to prosecute offenders. Additionally, the requirement for public officials to disclose their wealth has failed to prevent corrupt practices, with many officials exploiting the country’s economic woes.

The Anti-Corruption Commission

The transitional government has established an anti-corruption commission, but its effectiveness remains uncertain. The commission’s legislation is pending approval by the Council of Ministers and Parliament, but even if approved, it will require significant reforms to be effective.

Protection for Whistleblowers

Human rights groups have also expressed concerns over the lack of protection for citizens who report corruption or speak out against government officials. The Sudan Democracy First Group, a leading civil society organization, is working with the government to monitor the implementation of the anti-corruption commission and ensure that citizens are able to hold officials accountable without fear of reprisal.

The Road Ahead

As Sudan continues to navigate its transition towards democracy, addressing corruption will be crucial to building trust in the government and preventing further human rights abuses. The country’s leaders must take bold steps to overhaul the governance structure and eliminate the traditional pathways for corruption that have enabled public officials to enrich themselves.