Sudanese Bishop Recalls Violent Assault Amid Ongoing Conflict

Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali detailed a brutal assault by Sudan’s military factions following a Church event in South Sudan. Both he and a deacon were first attacked by the Sudanese Armed Forces, who confiscated cash, and later by the Rapid Support Forces, where the bishop suffered severe injuries. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis, exacerbating the risks faced by Christians in Sudan.

In the wake of ongoing conflict in Sudan, Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali from the El-Obeid Diocese has recounted a harrowing experience involving assault by rival military factions. On November 30, while returning from a Eucharistic Congress in South Sudan, the bishop and a deacon were victimized first by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), who confiscated money under the pretext of illegal possession of foreign currency. Subsequently, they were captured by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who subjected the bishop to severe physical violence, evidently leaving him in life-threatening condition.

Bishop Tombe documented his ordeal in a letter to Bishop Edward Hiiboro Kussala, conveying the extent of his injuries and the near-fatal nature of the assault, stating, “I can’t bite food. Together with deacon [Joseph], we narrowly missed martyrdom when one leader said that is enough.” This alarming incident underscores the heightened risks faced by religious leaders in conflict zones, particularly as violence continues to escalate between the SAF and RSF, resulting in significant casualties and widespread humanitarian crises in Sudan.

Bishop Matthew Remijo Adam of Wau expressed deep concern over the violence against Bishop Tombe, urging immediate action from President Salva Kiir Mayardit to ensure the safety of those threatened by the conflict. His call to action highlighted the urgent need for prayers and solidarity among the faithful, emphasizing their shared commitment to peace in a war-torn country. The ongoing conflict since 2023 has led to the tragic loss of over 61,000 lives and displaced millions, demonstrating profound humanitarian consequences.

As conditions for Christians deteriorate, Sudan ranks as one of the most perilous places for practicing Christianity globally, significantly worsening since the military coup of October 2021 that dismantled progress in religious freedom achieved after the resignation of Omar el Bashir in 2019. This regression further endangers the lives of approximately two million Christians in the country, as hostility towards faith-based communities has surged amid governmental instability.

In summary, Bishop Tombe’s assault reflects the chaotic and dangerous reality for religious leaders in Sudan as the country grapples with internal conflict. With military leaders claiming to promote democracy, the harsh reality reveals increased persecution and violence against Christians, necessitating urgent intervention and support for those at risk.

The conflict in Sudan has escalated dramatically since 2023, primarily due to a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This rivalry has resulted in severe humanitarian crises, significant loss of life, and displacement of millions. The situation is particularly dire for religious communities, including Christians, who have faced increased persecution despite brief improvements in freedom of worship following the displacement of former President Omar el Bashir in 2019. The military coup in October 2021 has further exacerbated conditions, reversing progress and placing many lives at risk.

The account of Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali serves as a profound reminder of the dangers religious leaders face in conflict zones like Sudan. As violence escalates between military factions, the vulnerabilities of Christians and the urgent need for protection and support have intensified. Collective action and intervention are critical to safeguarding those at risk and fostering peace in a country enduring significant turmoil.

Original Source: cruxnow.com