The Sudanese Professionals Association, the main umbrella group behind the popular demonstrations, called on people to come to the protests in larger numbers, in an attempt to bolster the anti-Bashir faction of the armed forces, as well as to build momentum for civilian rule.

Along with other groups, the association has formed a council which it proposes could rule the country for several years before a general election. “This alliance has become a coherent political force in the country but still needs time to establish transitional plans, including outlining its political leadership structure and solutions for the economic crisis,” wrote Ahmed Soliman, a researcher at Chatham House, in a note to journalists.

Mr Mahmoud, the activist, vowed to stay in the streets until there is some measure of justice and accountability for those killed during months of protest, and for the corruption of recent years. He vowed to defy the 10pm military curfew and remain camped out at the protest site. “We’re not leaving, no matter what kind of force they throw at us,” he said. “He said there’s going to be a military transitional government for two years. We will stay in the street for two years.”

Mr Bashir’s apparent demise followed hours of chaos that begin early Thursday morning as the country’s state broadcaster was seized by the military, while armed forces were deployed throughout the city, and thousands of protesters began to gather in front of the armed forces headquarters in Khartoum. “We waited and waited, and by that time millions, literally millions, were coming from all over the Khartoum area,” said Mr Mahmoud.

Videos posted to social media showed tens and perhaps hundreds of thousands of protesters flooding the streets in celebration.

The state news agency, SUNA, later reported that all political prisoners across the country would be released by the country’s security agency (NISS).