The Committee for Justice (CFJ) has documented a ruling issued by a criminal court in northern Sudan sentencing pharmacist Ahmed Al‑Shafa to two years’ imprisonment and imposing a fine of one million Sudanese pounds, following his conviction on charges related to inciting discontent among regular forces and undermining public safety.
According to information documented by CFJ, the case stemmed from allegations that Ahmed Al‑Shafa had made offensive remarks about Hisham Abdel Latif Bairam, a member of the Al‑Baraa Bin Malik Brigade who was killed during the conflict. The defense team stated that from the outset of the proceedings, Ahmed Al‑Shafa denied making any offensive statements.
Available information further indicates that the case appeared to be heading toward an acquittal in April 2026, before proceedings were reopened following reported interventions that allegedly included the withdrawal of the case file from the Public Prosecution and its return to the court. These developments were accompanied by claims that pressure had been exerted to influence the course of the proceedings.
The Committee for Justice stressed that judicial independence and the guarantee of a fair trial are among the fundamental pillars of the rule of law, and called for ensuring that judicial proceedings remain free from any interference or undue influence.
CFJ further urged respect for the rights of defendants to a fair and independent trial in accordance with international human rights standards, and emphasized the importance of safeguarding the integrity and impartiality of the justice system.
