during the Darfur conflict in the 2000s. The US imposed sanctions on him in 2007

The new man in charge is also a top military figure, but the Associated Press news agency reports that his record is cleaner than other Sudanese generals. He is also said to have met with protesters to hear their views.

image copyright AFP image caption Lt-Gen Burhan could be seen talking to demonstrators on Friday

Mr Bashir has been indicted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity over the Darfur conflict.

However, the military council has said it will not extradite Mr Bashir, who denies the charges, although he may be put on trial in Sudan.

How did the latest drama unfold?

Despite Mr Bashir's removal on Thursday, demonstrators had refusedto disperse, camping out outside army headquarters in the capital, Khartoum, in defiance of a curfew.

image copyright Reuters image caption Demonstrators stayed out on the streets of Khartoum overnight

In its first response, the military council came out and denied it was seeking power, telling the protesters that they would decide the country's future, while the army maintained public order.

A few hours later, Mr Ibn Auf announced he was resigning and would be replaced by Lt-Gen Burhan.

"In order to ensure the cohesion of the security system, and the armed forces in particular, from cracks and strife, and relying on God, let us begin this path of change," he said.

Protesters celebrated his abrupt departure but the Sudan Professionals Association, which has been spearheading the demonstrations, later announced that the sit-in