Sudanese journalist and Al-Taghyeer editor-in-chief Rasha Awad has faced threats and calls for her killing on social media, prompting condemnation from Sudanese journalists and rights groups. On October 7, 2026, the Sudanese Journalists Syndicate reported monitoring a social media post that explicitly called for Awad's killing, containing insults, hate speech, and threats linked to her political views and positions.
The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate has urged authorities to launch an immediate investigation into the threats against Awad, identify those responsible, and take legal action. The syndicate also called on political and professional groups, as well as public figures, to condemn incitement to violence and requested social media platforms remove content promoting violence.
The Al Jazeera Human Rights Observatory has separately condemned what it described as incitement against Awad on social media, including calls for her killing, threats, and hate speech related to her views. The observatory has called for urgent measures to protect Awad and her family and for an independent and transparent investigation to identify those responsible.
One of the posts calling for Awad's killing was published on Facebook by an account using the name “Amira Karrar”. However, the identity of the person operating the account could not be independently verified. Awad is a prominent Sudanese journalist and editor-in-chief of the online newspaper Al-Taghyeer, known for her extensive coverage of Sudanese politics and the war between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Awad has written extensively on the role of Islamist and civilian political groups in Sudan and has faced threats, detention, and other risks since the war began in April 2023. In May 2025, she was among Sudanese journalists who signed an international appeal highlighting conditions facing the country’s media during the war.
Sudanese journalists have faced increased risks and challenges since the start of the conflict, with media and human rights groups repeatedly calling on the warring parties and authorities to protect journalists and uphold freedom of expression. The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate and other groups continue to advocate for journalist safety and press freedom in the country.
The condemnation of the social media posts calling for Awad's killing highlights the need for greater protection and support for journalists in Sudan. Authorities have yet to comment on the investigation into the threats against Awad, but the involvement of multiple groups and organizations in condemning the threats may help raise awareness and push for action to ensure her safety.
Key points
- Sudanese groups condemn social media posts calling for journalist Rasha Awad's killing.
- Authorities urged to investigate threats and ensure Awad's safety.
- Journalists in Sudan face increased risks and challenges, including threats, detention, and violence.
