Sudan announces new government as economy struggles

By Gulsen Topcu

KHARTOUM

Sudan’s ruling National Congress Party said early Friday that a new government has been formed.

The party's vice president, Faisal Hassan Ibrahim, said in a press conference that the new ministers will assume their duties after being sworn-in at the Presidential Palace this evening and the first cabinet meeting will be held Sunday.

The government will reportedly consist of 21 federal ministers compared with 31 previously and 27 state ministers versus 47, reflecting Sudan’s efforts to cut down on spending as it grapples with a growing economic crisis.

President Omar Al-Bashir dissolved the government Sunday evening, according to the Sudan News Agency (SUNA).

Newly-appointed Prime Minister Mutaz Musa was sworn-in on Monday.

Sudan's economic crisis has deepened since January this year, with inflation surging to 65 percent amid stagnant growth.

The government of national unity was established in 2015 following general elections.