KHARTOUM, Feb. 22 (Xinhua) -- Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Friday declared a one-year state of emergency all over Sudan and dissolved central and state governments after more than two months of popular protests in the country.
The decisions came after marathon meetings al-Bashir held Friday with members of the coordination committee of the national dialogue, states governors and members of the leadership office of the ruling National Congress Party.
Al-Bashir said tight economic measures should be adopted by a new government, adding that he would task an executive working team with running the government until the process of dialogue is completed.
He also urged the parliament to postpone constitutional amendments that would allow him to seek a new term.
He stressed the importance of achieving national accord as a strategic goal, saying "there is no alternative except dialogue."
The president urged the opposition forces to join the national dialogue to engage in consultations regarding current and future issues.
He acknowledged the legitimacy of the protesters' demands, including improving the country's economic condition, while criticizing some parties which he said attempted to exploit the protests that may lead the country to the unknown.
Since December 2018, Sudan has been witnessing popular protests over the deteriorating economic conditions and basic commodity price hikes.
