The mystery woman in White, who became an internet sensation and protest icon when a video of her leading chants of protest against the overthrown Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir on Twitter was shared hundreds of thousand times, has finally spoken.
Alaa Salh, a 22-year-old student, has spoken out to BBC News. She earned the nickname “Kandaka”, which means Nubian queen for her fearless protests against the former Sudanese President – who was accused of human rights violations and political corruption prior to his overthrow.
“I did not expect to be called an icon of the Revolution, and I do not claim that I am one.” The BBC reported that “all Sudanese are the icons of the revolution”, the young activist said.
“I had no idea my picture would spread or that my video clip will go viral.” “When I stood up to protest on 8 March, Omar al-Bashir still ruled,” she continued.
He was removed three days later. Standing in the way I did, it was possible to be shot from any angle or even afterward.
Sudan’s main opposition group claims that around 20 people have died and dozens more have been injured since the protests began back in December.
The amazing woman replied to the question about whether she and the other activists were scared, saying, “We weren’t scared, though we were aware that all possibilities existed.
“We could have been shot or injured in an arm or eye.” Anything could happen. I participated in the protests, because I dreamed of a better Sudan where everyone could live with dignity and honor.”
Women have played an important role in protests. They often make up the majority of demonstrators. The young student who inspired them has become the symbol.
The 22-year old expressed her pride for the women who protested in her country, using her newly acquired nickname “Kandaka”, a name historically used to refer to Nubian queens of ancient Sudan.
She told Reuters that “all those struggling on the streets and in all the squares” are Kendakas.
