The United States, Norway, Britain and the European Union have warned the Sudanese military against appointing their own prime minister, saying it would risk plunging the nation into conflict.

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.