Catholic Bishops Urge Peace and Restraint in South Sudan Amid Crisis
The South Sudan and Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference has raised alarm over the worsening political and security situation in South Sudan, notably following clashes and the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar. Archbishop Stephen Ameyu Martin emphasized the need for restraint, dialogue, and adherence to peace agreements, condemning foreign military involvement and urging all parties to work towards peace.
On Saturday, the South Sudan and Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference expressed serious concerns regarding the deteriorating political and security dynamics in South Sudan. This declaration follows violent clashes and the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar. During a press conference held in Juba, Metropolitan Archbishop Stephen Ameyu Martin highlighted the alarming conflict between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition, and the alarming trend of increasing civilian displacement, particularly among women and children, signaling a troubling setback to peace efforts long advocated by the Church.
Archbishop Ameyu remarked, “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 underscored the Church’s commitment to promoting restraint, dialogue, and adherence to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), recalling the sentiments shared by Pope Francis during his 2023 visit to the country.
The clergy urged President Salva Kiir and all political leaders to fulfill their responsibilities and avoid a return to armed conflict. They quoted, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an overflowing stream,” emphasizing the need for accountability. The Archbishop condemned Ugandan military involvement in South Sudan, asserting that such foreign interventions exacerbate distrust and tension in the region.
He cautioned that a return to widespread violence would yield dire consequences, including significant loss of life and the disintegration of national unity. He lamented the political abandonment of the nation’s vulnerable populations, declaring that the suffering of the poor, orphans, and widows would not be forgotten.
Additionally, Archbishop Ameyu expressed the Church’s readiness to facilitate dialogue and advocate for peace. He called upon civil society, youth, women’s groups, traditional leaders, and the international community to unite against conflict. He challenged South Sudanese individuals to counter hatred and divisive rhetoric, stating, “Resist hate speech, tribal incitement, and misinformation, especially through social media.”
He implored political leaders to heed Pope Francis’s guidance that, “Peace requires forgiveness, courage, and hope,” urging them not to succumb to silence or fear but to act righteously and justly. The Archbishop affirmed that South Sudan’s future relies heavily on the choices made at this pivotal moment, invoking the intercession of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, for the nation’s healing.
In summary, the South Sudan Catholic bishops highlighted the urgent need for dialogue and restraint amid escalating violence and political instability in South Sudan. The call for political leaders to uphold their commitments and to resist the temptation to resort to arms is critical for the future of the nation. Furthermore, collective action against hate and misinformation is imperative to foster peace and safeguard the wellbeing of vulnerable communities. The plea for prayer and mediation signifies the Church’s commitment to serve as a guiding force in seeking reconciliation.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
