Sudan’s government has announced plans to merge five government ministries in an effort to curb spending. The decision reduces the number of cabinet posts from 31 to 26.

The government recently introduced austerity measures, including a reduction in subsidies, which has raised the price of fuel and food. According to President Omar al-Bashir, cuts need to be made following the loss of natural resources by the secession of South Sudan in 2011. The move sparked protests.

The Sudanese government hopes to quell the anger of the protesters by implementing spending cuts at the top. Parliament will also cut the number of specialised committees.