Two Sudanese pastors highlighting the persecution of Christians in their country for the purpose of safeguarding their fellow Christians are in custody. They face seven charges including waging war against the state and espionage, which carry the death penalty. Rev Hassan Abduraheem and Rev Kuwa Shamal are on trial with two others, Petr Jašek and Abdulmonem Abdumawla. The hearing, which was due to start in September, has repeatedly been rescheduled. Mervyn Thomas of Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is concerned about the continuing delays in the trial, stating, ‘Fair trial principles stipulate that criminal proceedings should occur within a reasonable time. In this case, the constant postponements, due to the absence of the judge or prosecutor or failure to transport the men to court, are prolonging proceedings unnecessarily, which is unacceptable, given the length of time these men have already spent in custody.’ CSW is calling for the unconditional and immediate release of ‘these unjustly detained men.’ See update at: