UN strongly encourages inclusion of women in transitional bodies in Sudan

He noted that Prime Minister-designate, Abdalla Hamdok, was set to arrive in Khartoum to be sworn in, and wished him “all the best in leading the new transitional government” while hoping that cabinet members would also be appointed speedily.

The UN warmly-welcomed the nominations on Wednesday by Sudan's Transitional Military Council and main opposition group, the Forces for Freedom and Change, for the new Sovereign Council as well as its subsequent formation and swearing-in.

Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told journalists that "we take note of the inclusion of two women in the Sovereign Council and strongly further encourage the inclusion of women in all transitional bodies in Sudan, including in, but not limited to the Transitional Legislative Assembly."

He noted that Prime Minister-designate, Abdalla Hamdok, was set to arrive in Khartoum to be sworn in, and wished him "all the best in leading the new transitional government" while hoping that cabinet members would also be appointed speedily.

"As the Secretary-General said in his statement after the signing ceremony this weekend, the UN looks forward to engaging with and supporting the transitional governing institutions. We also reiterate our commitment to assisting the transition process as it seeks to achieve the long-standing aspiration of the people of Sudan for democracy and peace", Mr. Dujarric said.