Sudan’s ousted longtime leader Omar al-Bashir has gone on trial over a military coup that brought him to power on June 30, 1989.
Bashir was forced from power in 2019 following protests that started in late 2018. A joint unity government made up of the top army officials and civilians was formed in August.
More than 20 former officials who served in his government are on trial as well. Along with the officials, Bashir is accused of having plotted the coup in which the army arrested Sudan’s political leaders, suspended parliament, closed the airport and announced the overthrow on the radio.
Bashir has already been convicted for corruption. He could face the death penalty if found guilty over his role in the coup.
The trial was adjourned until August 11 to reconvene in a bigger court to allow more lawyers and family members of defendants to attend.
