Sudan’s government suspended the operations of three prominent Arabic-language news channels on Tuesday, April 2nd.
The channels in question are Saudi-owned Al Arabiya and Al Hadath, along with UAE-based Sky News Arabia.
The Sudanese state news agency (SUNA) cited a “lack of commitment to the required professionalism and transparency” and the channels’ failure to renew their licenses as reasons for the suspension.
This move has drawn criticism from the Sudanese Journalists Syndicate, who condemned the decision as a violation of freedom of expression and the press.
The syndicate further warned that shutting down these channels could stifle professional media and create an environment where rumors and hate speech flourish.
They see the suspension as an extension of existing pressure on journalists, who have reportedly faced difficult working conditions since the outbreak of war last April.
Meanwhile, both Al Hadath and Al Arabiya have expressed surprise at the news, claiming they haven’t received any official notification regarding the suspension.
The war in Sudan, which began a year ago, stemmed from disagreements over the power-sharing arrangement between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
This agreement was part of an internationally-supported plan for a political transition towards civilian rule and eventual elections.