Revolution Day in Sudan

A protest that became a national movement

On December 19, 2018, schoolgirls in Atbara marched after the price of bread had sharply increased. Other residents joined them, and protests spread to cities including Al-Gedarif, Madani, Nyala, and Port Sudan. The United Nations reported that demonstrations had swept the country amid rising prices and shortages of food and fuel.[1][2]

The protests soon moved beyond economic grievances. Demonstrators called for an end to al-Bashir’s rule, and civil society groups helped organize actions across the country. On April 11, 2019, the military removed al-Bashir from office after a sit-in outside the armed forces’ General Command in Khartoum.[2]

The revolution is remembered as a Sudanese movement for political change, shaped by people protesting in cities across the country. The Journal of Democracy’s account describes women’s participation, neighborhood organizing, and the sit-in’s political and cultural activity, including art honoring those killed and performances by artists.[2]

Date, public-holiday status, and observance

December 19 is listed as a public holiday. The Embassy of Japan in Sudan also included December 19 as “December Revolution Anniversary” in its 2021 holiday calendar.[3]

The historical account documents protest gatherings, sit-ins, art, and performances during the revolution itself.[2]

Planning around the holiday

Check directly with the relevant institution or service before making plans. The 2021 Japanese embassy calendar records that mission’s holiday schedule.[3]