Manitoba’s South Sudanese Community Rallies for Justice Amid Violence

The South Sudanese community in Manitoba expressed sorrow and rallied for justice following recent violence in South Sudan, where government actions have reportedly led to the deaths of many civilians. The rally aimed to raise awareness and call upon the Canadian government to intervene in the situation. Concerns about ongoing conflicts and foreign involvement were emphasized, alongside the need for self-determination and collective efforts for peace.

The South Sudanese community in Manitoba has expressed profound sorrow following recent violent events in South Sudan, prompting a rally in Winnipeg at the Manitoba legislature. Approximately 30 individuals gathered to voice their concerns regarding the deaths of fellow compatriots allegedly at the hands of the government. Martino Laku, a participant who emigrated to Winnipeg in the early 2000s, articulated his heartbreak, noting, “It took us more than 25 years to get to where we wanted to be — have an independent country, but seeing this happening now in our country, it just breaks our heart.”

In early March, an airstrike attributed to South Sudan’s airforce resulted in at least 19 fatalities in the eastern region of the country. This occurred shortly after government forces withdrew following clashes with an ethnic militia known as the White Army. According to a UN peacekeeping mission, South Sudan is on the verge of rekindling widespread internal conflict, especially following the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar, accused of inciting rebellion.

The civil war in South Sudan, which lasted from 2013 to 2018, claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and concluded with a peace agreement. However, Machar’s detention has been labeled a “blatant violation” of the peace accord, risking the stability of the region. Community member Souka Lofoni lamented the dire situation stating, “We are devastated. They’re being bombed. They’ve been displaced from their houses.”

The involvement of foreign nations in South Sudan has compounded grievances. Recently, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni arrived in South Sudan, with his army previously assisting President Kiir’s forces during the civil strife. Rally organizer Peter Jack warned that Museveni’s presence threatens the ongoing peace process.

The participants called for heightened awareness and action from the Canadian government regarding their homeland’s situation, emphasizing the necessity for international intervention. Lofoni urged, “Canada should put the voice to end the suffering in South Sudan,” stressing the community’s need for responses from global authorities. Furthermore, Laku emphasized that true self-determination and collective commitment are crucial for future peace, stating, “If the people are really committed and they’re able to work together for the development of the country.”

The South Sudanese community in Manitoba is deeply impacted by the violence in their home country, fearing for the safety of their families and urging for international support. The recent rally highlighted the call for justice and condemnation of the violence from their government, with an emphasis on the need for self-determination and a collective commitment to peace among South Sudanese people. The ongoing situation reflects the fragility of the peace established after years of conflict and the potential risks posed by foreign intervention.

Original Source: www.cbc.ca