Sudan braced for nationwide protest

Good morning.

We'll be following events in Sudan live today, with opponents of Monday's military coup set to hold nationwide protests to demand the restoration of a civilian-led government.

With the internet and phone lines restricted by the authorities, opponents of the coup have sought to mobilise for the protest using fliers, SMS messages, graffiti, and neighbourhood rallies.

Neighbourhood-based resistance committees, active since the uprising against former president Omar al-Bashir that began in December 2018, have been central to organising despite the arrest of key politicians.

With at least 11 protesters killed in clashes with security forces, opponents of the junta fear a full-blown crackdown and more bloodshed.

The United States, which is calling for the restoration of the civilian-led government, said that the way Sudan's military reacts on Saturday will be a test of its intentions.

Khartoum committee activist Hussam Ibnauf told Reuters he was confident of a big turnout. There was now "no fear factor", he said.

"Everyone on the street... they know about October 30. If they know, the rest is easy."