Kim unveils bill aimed at sanctioning Sudan

U.S. Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) on Dec. 3 sponsored the bipartisan Sudan Democracy Act to impose sanctions on those responsible for the military takeover of Sudan’s civilian-led democratic transition in October and the deaths of Sudanese civilians.

“The United States is a beacon of hope and opportunity and should support our allies in their pursuit of liberty and democracy,” Rep. Kim said. “I will continue to do all I can to promote human rights and freedom across the nation and the globe.”

Specifically, H.R. 6140, which is cosponsored by U.S. Reps. Dean Phillips (D-MN) and Michael McCaul (R-TX), would impose targeted sanctions against individuals and entities actively threatening civilian-led democracy and human rights in the northeastern African country, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Kim’s office. 

“The people of Sudan continue to show their support for a representative democratic government,” said Rep. Kim, who serves on the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, and Global Human Rights. “I’m proud to help take concrete steps to show support for the brave people of Sudan as they peacefully protest for democracy and hold those responsible for undermining Sudan’s civilian-led democratic transition accountable.”

Rep. McCaul, ranking member of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, said he’s proud to stand in solidarity with the Sudanese people seeking freedom, democracy and civilian rule. “This legislation is an important step to hold the military junta accountable for the Oct. 25 coup, and all who seek to undermine efforts to build a democracy in Sudan,” the congressman said.

H.R. 6140 is under consideration in the House Foreign Affairs Committee as well as the U.S. House Judiciary Committee.

Rep. Phillips pointed out that the recent military coup in Sudan undermines important progress the Sudanese people have made toward installing a civilian-led government. 

“I wholeheartedly condemn it,” he said. “We must do everything in our power as a nation to support the democratic aspirations of the people of Sudan and stand up for human rights, good governance, and diplomacy, at home and abroad.”