The Carter Center expressed grave concern about government crackdowns on opposition rallies that undermined “political rights and fundamental freedoms” ahead of polls in April 2010.
Riot police used tear gas to break up two demonstrations in Khartoum this month and arrested scores of demonstrators, including some senior party leaders.The rallies were organized by the SPLM and other political forces to call for the enactment of laws in order to foster democratic transformation ahead of the April 2010 elections.
The Carter Centre in a statement called on the government to investigate reports of police brutality during the rallies, end arbitrary arrests and release “persons detained while conducting peaceful political activities”.
The Centre says it is gravely concerned by the recent action of the security forces in Khartoum to restrict legitimate activity related to the exercise of freedom of assembly, association and speech.
It also condemned attacks on the NCP offices in Wau and Rumbek, in Southern Sudan, as well as reports of harassment of opposition parties in the south.
The report urges the Government of Southern Sudan to ensure that political pluralism is fully protected.
It added that this must extend to the activities of all parties, including the NCP.