KHARTOUM, Jan. 31 (Xinhua) -- Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Thursday said the government and the president can only be changed "through the ballot boxes."
"Changing the government and the president will not be through the WhatsApp or the Facebook, but through the ballot boxes," said al-Bashir when addressing a rally of his supporters in Kassala State in eastern Sudan on Thursday.
"Only the people decide who to rule Sudan. The decision is for the people," noted al-Bashir.
He acknowledged that Sudan is going through difficulties, pointing out that the government is working to overcome them.
The president also renewed commitment to dialogue with the youths "to hear their voice, because this ensures the future of Sudan."
"Caring for them (the youths), protecting them and negotiating with them is the responsibility of every official, whether in the government or the community," he added.
Since Dec. 19 last year, various areas in Sudan, including capital Khartoum, have been witnessing popular protests over the deteriorating economic conditions and price hikes of basic commodities.
According to government statistics, at least 30 people have been killed during the popular protests.
