Sudanese Catholic Bishop Yunan Andali Survives Near-Execution Amid War

Sudanese Catholic Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali narrowly escaped execution while returning to El Obeid after a religious congress. He faced violent encounters with both the Sudan Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces. The bishop emphasized the urgent humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has caused significant loss of life and mass displacement.

Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali of El Obeid narrowly escaped execution in Sudan during a period of intense conflict between the Sudan Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Following a Eucharistic congress in Juba celebrating 50 years of the Catholic bishops’ conference, Bishop Andali encountered perilous situations during his return to El Obeid. He detailed how he was mistreated and faced potential execution at the hands of both military factions, highlighting the grave humanitarian situation in Sudan amidst ongoing violence and instability. Fortunately, he managed to escape execution due to a timely intervention by a paramilitary leader who ordered his release. Bishop Andali has chosen to stay with his community during this tumultuous time, even as thousands have been displaced and the war continues to escalate, with dire humanitarian consequences affecting millions.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which escalated on April 15, 2023, has been marked by violent confrontations between the army and paramilitary forces. With a population of approximately 46.8 million, a small percentage identifies as Christian, with Catholics numbering around 1.1 million. The war has resulted in substantial loss of life and mass displacement, with an estimated 61,000 lives claimed and 11 million people uprooted. Church leaders, including Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, have condemned the humanitarian crisis, calling for unity and an end to the violence. The precarious security situation has forced clergy to make difficult decisions about their presence in conflict-affected regions, with many remaining to support their congregants in challenging circumstances.

In conclusion, Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali’s near-execution underscores the severe risks faced by religious leaders in conflict zones like Sudan. His commitment to remain with his community amidst violence exemplifies the resilience and dedication of clergy to provide spiritual support and leadership. The ongoing conflict continues to pose profound humanitarian challenges, necessitating urgent attention and action from the international community to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people.

Original Source: www.ncronline.org