Mistrust and Arms Proliferation Hinder Peace in South Sudan

Rev. Justin Badi Arama, head of the SSCC, highlights arms proliferation and mistrust as key barriers to peace in South Sudan. He advocates for disarmament and political dialogue while urging continued hope and cooperation among religious and civil stakeholders, especially amidst ongoing violence and political tensions.

The head of the South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC), Rev. Justin Badi Arama, has warned that the availability of arms and a pervasive lack of trust among communities and leaders pose significant obstacles to peace in South Sudan. In an interview with Radio Tamazuj, he highlighted ongoing violence in areas such as Upper Nile State, where recent clashes have caused mass displacement, demonstrating the country’s fragile stability.

Rev. Badi stated that the primary threat to peace is the widespread mistrust, which permeates various levels of society. “The biggest threat to peace is the lack of trust,” he remarked, noting the distrust between political leaders, civilians, and security forces. He attributed this instability to the proliferation of arms among civilians and armed factions, advocating for nationwide disarmament as a crucial step towards peace-building.

In his appeal, Rev. Badi urged political leaders to refrain from retaliation and to prioritize dialogue to mitigate violence. He cautioned, “Choosing violence only deepens our crisis,” and emphasized the need for leaders to remain composed and pursue peaceful resolutions. Rev. Badi also compared the peace process to a careful gardening endeavor that requires patience and nurturing, encouraging citizens to maintain hope for a stable future.

Additionally, he asserted the continued role of religious leaders in promoting reconciliation, despite potential political resistance. “We will keep speaking, praying, and reminding leaders of their duties—even if they seem unresponsive,” he stated, highlighting that peace can be achieved by rejecting revenge and fostering forgiveness. Collaboration among religious organizations, civil society, and international partners is vital for sustainable development and security in the country.

This appeal comes amidst intensifying political strife, illustrated by recent clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, between factions loyal to President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar. These skirmishes have resulted in fatalities, including that of a high-ranking military official, exacerbating the ongoing violence that persists despite the 2018 peace agreement designed to conclude a prolonged civil war.

In summary, Rev. Justin Badi Arama emphasizes the dual threats of arms proliferation and widespread mistrust as critical barriers to peace in South Sudan. He calls for disarmament, dialogue among leaders, and a patient approach to the peace process. Through perseverance and collaboration among all stakeholders, there remains hope for lasting stability and reconciliation in the region.

Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org