Sudan; Interim National Constitution (2005)

The 2005 Sudan Interim Constitution, ratified by the Sudan National Assembly, establishes the groundwork for a decentralized Sudanese state, with provisions concerning elections and power distribution. The Constitution emerged from a Comprehensive Peace Agreement, marking the end of Africa's longest-running conflict. It recognizes Sudan's religious, racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity, and commits to establishing a decentralized multi-party democratic system where power is peacefully transferred. It also pledges to uphold justice, equality, human dignity, and equal rights and duties for men and women. The Constitution further commits to promoting economic development, social harmony, religious tolerance, and societal trust and confidence. It acknowledges the 1998 Constitution and the Sudanese constitutional experience since independence, along with other relevant experiences. It also recognizes peace and national reconciliation agreements, particularly the Cairo Agreement signed in June 2005. The Constitution is adopted as the supreme law governing the Republic of Sudan during the Interim Period. It is predicated upon principles such as the unity of Sudan based on the free will of its people, the rule of law, decentralized democratic governance, accountability, equality, respect, and justice. It also highlights the cultural and social diversity of the Sudanese people as the foundation of national cohesion.