Sudan lawyer questions military handling of ex-ruler's party chief
Ahmed Haroun, facing war crimes charges, appeared publicly after escaping prison in April 2024.
Lawyer Muaz Hadra stated that the public appearance of Ahmed Haroun, chairman of Sudan’s former National Congress Party (NCP), places military authorities in an awkward position. Haroun faces criminal charges in Sudan for war crimes and crimes against humanity, and is also wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged atrocities in Darfur. He denies the charges, calling them politically motivated.
Hadra questioned why Haroun, who left prison during the April 2023 war and escaped Kober Prison in April 2024, has not returned to custody. The lawyer argued that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) should not have detained Haroun, asserting that police and judicial authorities are responsible for individuals facing criminal charges. Hadra suggested the military's involvement indicates Haroun may be held in a secure location with military protection, similar to former officials like Omar al-Bashir.
The lawyer also noted Haroun's public statements, which he believes show the continued influence of the disbanded NCP. Haroun has reportedly criticized the December 2018 revolution and various political figures, with some remarks indirectly criticizing the military leadership. Hadra indicated that Haroun appeared to suggest that army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan protected individuals who had betrayed the former ruling party.
Why it mattersThe public appearance and legal status of Ahmed Haroun, a former ruling party chairman facing war crimes charges, raise questions about the Sudanese military's role and the independence of judicial institutions.