Sudan signs agreement with rebels, recognizing religious freedom The transitional government of Sudan and a main rebel group sign "Declaration of Principles" that includes the end of Sharia and guarantees freedom of worship Christmas celebration in a house transformed for the occasion into a church in Omdurman, near Khartoum, on December 25, 2020. (Photo by ABDULMONAM EASSA) The Republic of Sudan has moved closer to a final peace agreement with rebel factions after the signing of a new "Declaration of Principles", which excludes a return to Sharia (Islamic law) and guarantees freedom of religion. Abdel Fattah al Burhan, who heads the Northeast African nation's transitional government, signed the deal on March 28 with Abdel-Aziz al Hilu, leader of the Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (Splm-N).