Sudanese parliament head: freedom to form parties is guaranteed

Hassan El-Tourabi, the head of the Sudanese parliament, confirmed that the new draft constitution currently under discussion by the deputies provides all with the right to form political parties.

El-Tourabi stated that the only condition placed on the formation of political parties is that they must agree with the constitution's general principals.

Criticism was directed at the amendments made by the presidency to the draft constitution. The opposition and deputies demanded the ratification of the original draft, despite statements by officials that the amendments were only concerned with the context, without looking to change the essence of the draft's provisions.

El-Tourabi said that a number of political and religious freedoms were included in the constitution, and that the constitution cannot be amended except through a public referendum.

The head of the national committee authorized to write the draft constitution, Khalef Allah El-Rashid, said that the committee made Islamic law and customs the main sources for the legislation. He said the constitution is based on division of authority and providing for citizens' natural rights of justice and freedom.