Mistrust and Arms Proliferation: Major Threats to Peace in South Sudan

Rev. Justin Badi Arama, leader of the South Sudan Council of Churches, warns that mistrust and the influx of arms are significant barriers to peace in South Sudan. He urges political leaders to engage in dialogue rather than retaliation and highlights the need for disarmament. Despite the ongoing violence, he encourages citizens to maintain hope and work towards reconciliation.

The head of the South Sudan Council of Churches, Rev. Justin Badi Arama, has expressed that a pervasive availability of arms and a lack of trust among communities and leaders pose significant obstacles to peace in South Sudan. In an interview with Radio Tamazuj, he underscored that the ongoing violence, particularly in Upper Nile State, highlights the nation’s instability and fragility.

Rev. Badi noted, “The biggest threat to peace is the lack of trust.” He elaborated that there exists a profound distrust among political leaders, civilians, and even within the organized security forces, exacerbating the overall situation. He also identified the rampant proliferation of weapons among various factions as a key contributor to the country’s turmoil, imploring authorities to prioritize disarmament in peace initiatives.

To mitigate the ongoing conflicts, he urged political leaders to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to retaliation, asserting, “Choosing violence only deepens our crisis.” Rev. Badi encouraged a calm approach, advocating for peaceful resolutions to escalating tensions. He likened the peace process to planting seeds that require patience and care, emphasizing the necessity of hope among citizens.

Religious leaders remain committed to advocating for reconciliation, despite potential political challenges. Rev. Badi reaffirmed their dedication, stating, “We will keep speaking, praying, and reminding leaders of their duties—even if they seem unresponsive.” He expressed strong belief that peace is achievable through rejecting vengeance and promoting forgiveness.

The context of Rev. Badi’s remarks is particularly significant given the rising political tensions in South Sudan, notably following recent clashes between rival military factions, which resulted in casualties. The country continues to face sporadic violence, even after a peace agreement was established in 2018 to end a prolonged civil conflict.

In conclusion, Rev. Justin Badi Arama emphasizes that the twin challenges of mistrust and armament proliferation must be addressed to foster peace in South Sudan. He advocates for dialogue over retaliation and encourages the collaborative efforts of religious leaders and communities to promote reconciliation and sustainable development. His message underlines hope and the need for patience as South Sudan navigates its complex path towards stability.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org