Catholic Bishops Sound Alarm on Deteriorating Crisis in South Sudan

The South Sudan and Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference has raised alarms about the deteriorating situation in South Sudan, marked by violence and political unrest. Archbishop Stephen Ameyu highlighted the suffering of civilians and the risk posed by foreign military involvement, urging leaders to adhere to peace agreements. The bishops called for dialogue and unity among all citizens to overcome conflict and build a stable future.

The South Sudan and Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference has expressed serious concerns regarding the worsening political and security climate in South Sudan, particularly following recent unrest and the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar. During a press briefing in Juba, Metropolitan Archbishop Stephen Ameyu Martin voiced that conflicts between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) herald a tragic setback for peace, as they displace many innocent civilians, notably vulnerable women and children.

Archbishop Martin lamented that the people of South Sudan have endured prolonged suffering due to warfare, which has claimed their homes and future. He reiterated the Church’s ongoing call for peace and dialogue, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), as highlighted by Pope Francis during his Juba visit in 2023.

The clergy urged President Salva Kiir and other political leaders to fulfill their commitments, asserting, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an overflowing stream.” They criticized the deployment of the Ugandan army as exacerbating the situation, warning that such foreign military involvement has intensified fear and distrust among the populace.

Martin cautioned against a return to extensive violence, predicting catastrophic consequences such as loss of life and disintegration of national unity. He underscored the importance of addressing the plight of the poor, displaced, orphans, and widows, noting that their suffering will not be forgotten.

He affirmed the Church leaders’ commitment to facilitate dialogue and advocate for peace, urging collaboration among civil society, youth, women’s organizations, and traditional leaders. Additionally, he called upon South Sudanese citizens to reject violence and divisiveness, encouraging them to resist hate speech and remain united for the sake of their nation.

The Archbishop also reminded political leaders of Pope Francis’s urging for peace to be anchored in forgiveness and hope, promoting a collective striving for justice and humility. He emphasized that the future of South Sudan lies in the decisions made today, seeking intercession from Mary, the Mother of Jesus, for healing in the nation.

The Catholic bishops in South Sudan have expressed grave concerns about the country’s escalating political violence and insecurity, emphasizing the dire need for dialogue, peace, and adherence to conflict resolution agreements. They have called on political leaders to honor their responsibilities and have engaged the community to resist division and promote unity. A collaborative effort towards peace is deemed essential for the well-being of future generations in South Sudan.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org