Catholic bishops in South Sudan have sounded alarms over rising political and security issues, citing clashes and detentions, notably of Riek Machar. They urge leaders to prioritize dialogue and uphold peace agreements. Criticism of foreign military involvement also features, emphasizing the potential for catastrophic violence. Leaders are encouraged to act justly, resist hatred, and focus on social cohesion for a stable future.
On Saturday, the South Sudan and Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference expressed serious concerns about the worsening political and security conditions in South Sudan, particularly after recent violent clashes and the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar. Archbishop Stephen Ameyu Martin addressed the press in Juba, emphasizing that the ongoing conflicts between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO), alongside the increased displacement of civilians, signify a significant setback to the peace efforts advocated by the Church.
Archbishop Martin stated, “The people of South Sudan have suffered too long. War has taken their children, their homes, their future, and yet again, the dark clouds of conflict hover over our nation.” He reiterated the Church’s commitment to promoting dialogue and safety, urging all parties to respect the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), a sentiment previously underscored by Pope Francis during his 2023 visit to Juba.
The Archbishop called on President Salva Kiir and other political leaders to fulfill their commitments to peace: “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an overflowing stream.” He criticized foreign military involvement, particularly by the Ugandan army, as detrimental to South Sudan’s stability. “The arrest of opposition leaders and the involvement of foreign military forces… have only served to heighten fear and mistrust.”
Warning that a return to widespread violence would have grave consequences, the Archbishop articulated the potential for tragic loss of life and societal collapse. He emphasized the need for leaders to address the plight of the vulnerable: “The political neglect of the suffering poor… will not go unremembered before God.”
He encouraged the Church and society to mediate dialogue and support peace initiatives. He called on civil society, youth, and women’s groups to oppose violence and work towards reconciliation. Furthermore, he urged citizens to reject hate speech and false narratives: “Do not let your hearts be hardened. This land is yours and your children’s. Do not let it be soaked in blood again.”
Addressing political leaders, Archbishop Ameyu reminded them of Pope Francis’s message: “Peace requires forgiveness, courage, and hope. It demands that we look beyond ourselves.” He called for collective action to ensure peace and justice, stressing that South Sudan’s future relies on the actions taken today, invoking the intercession of Mary for the nation’s healing.
The Catholic bishops in South Sudan have raised critical alarms regarding the deteriorating security and political landscape, driven by recent violence and detentions. Their call for peace, dialogue, and community engagement underscores the urgent need for action to prevent further conflict. Highlighting the importance of structural reforms and accountability, the bishops stress the moral obligations of political leaders to safeguard their citizens’ welfare. On a broader scale, the bishops entrust the future of South Sudan to the faith and resilience of its people, advocating for a united front against violence and injustice.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
