The European Union has called on the Sudan’s junta to refrain from violence and make efforts to de-escalate tensions.

“We call upon the military authorities to make their utmost efforts to de-escalate tensions. Avoiding further loss of life is of the essence,’’ EU’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement Tuesday.

Mr Borrell who assured that the EU would continue to support the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people said the request became paramount after reports that seven demonstrators died during protests on Monday.

He noted that authorities in Sudan had been limiting the freedom of expression and gathering since the coup d’etat on October 25.

The diplomat added that the Sudanese government revoked Qatari broadcaster Al-Jazeera Mubasher’s licence on Sunday, worried journalists and activists are being detained while the military uses disproportionate force against them.

According to Mr Borrell, these actions show that new authorities in Sudan are not ready to find a peaceful solution to the issue and that puts the country on a pathway from peace and stability.

On October 25, the Sudanese military led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan overthrew the Sudanese government in a military coup.

Many pro-government activists and supporters, ministers, as well as journalists, and human rights defenders were arrested after the coup. Sudanese nationals had been protesting against the country’s military authorities ever since.

The EU, the United States, and other Western countries refused to recognise the transition of power. 

On October 26, the African Union suspended Sudan’s membership. 

(NAN)