Bishops Urge Action Amid Alarming Political and Humanitarian Crises in Sudan and South Sudan

The Bishops of South Sudan and Sudan expressed alarm over postponed democratic elections and ongoing violence in Juba. They urged the government and opposition to expedite the implementation of peace agreements while condemning humanitarian law violations in the Sudan conflict, which has caused immense suffering and displacement.

In an urgent statement, the Bishops of South Sudan and Sudan expressed grave concerns regarding the ongoing political turmoil and humanitarian crisis in both nations. Following a meeting in Kit, Eastern Equatoria, the bishops noted the detrimental impact of postponed democratic elections in South Sudan on the prospect of sustainable peace. They emphasized the need for immediate implementation of the agreements established since the civil war began in December 2013, including the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict and the Tumaini Consensus, both of which have seen delays.

The bishops urged the South Sudanese government and opposition groups to swiftly enact the framework of these agreements while also appealing for the expeditious drafting of a new constitution. They recognized the crucial role of the international community in supporting South Sudan’s stability and development efforts. In Juba, tensions escalated with violent confrontations following the recent dismissal of former National Security Service chief Akol Koor Kuc, underlining persistent internal power struggles within the ruling administration.

Parallelly, the bishops lamented the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Sudan, where the civil war has led to an immense loss of life and mass displacements since April 2023. They condemned the blockade of humanitarian assistance and called on all involved parties to honor humanitarian law to alleviate the suffering of affected civilians.

The current political and humanitarian situation in South Sudan and Sudan is deeply rooted in a tumultuous history marked by civil wars, challenging governance structures, and ethnic divisions. Following the outbreak of civil war in 2013, South Sudan has seen numerous peace agreements that have largely remained unimplemented. The latest agreements, including the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict and the 2024 Tumaini Consensus, were intended to pave the way for democratic elections and a new constitution that reflects a commitment to peace and stability. Meanwhile, Sudan faces a similar plight with devastating consequences of the ongoing civil conflict that erupted in April 2023, exacerbating humanitarian crises and displacing millions.

In conclusion, the Bishops of South Sudan and Sudan highlighted the pressing need for political resolution and humanitarian support in both nations. They called for the immediate implementation of outstanding peace agreements, the drafting of a new constitution, and respect for international humanitarian laws. As South Sudan grapples with governance issues and Sudan suffers from severe humanitarian crises, the role of both national leaders and the international community is critical in fostering stability and ensuring human dignity for the affected populations.

Original Source: www.fides.org