The countries said they would not support a prime minister or government appointed without the involvement of a broad range of civilian stakeholders.

The former prime minister, Abdalla Hamdok, resigned on Sunday amid a political deadlock and widespread protests resulting from October's military coup.

The Western countries again voiced alarm at the military's actions against protesters - more than 50 have been killed since the coup.

On Tuesday in several cities, security forces fired tear gas to disperse large crowds demonstrating against military rule.