Manitoba’s South Sudanese Community Rallies for Justice Amid…

The South Sudanese community in Manitoba rallied in Winnipeg to protest violence in their homeland, where recent government actions and foreign involvement threaten peace. They called on Canada and the international community to condemn this violence and advocate for stability in South Sudan, emphasizing the need for both external support and local commitment to peace.

The South Sudanese community in Manitoba has expressed profound grief over the violence occurring in their home country, evidenced by a rally held in Winnipeg. Community members gathered at the Manitoba legislature to protest against the deaths of their compatriots allegedly caused by government forces. Martino Laku, a rally participant, emphasized the heartbreak felt by South Sudanese immigrants, stating, “It took us more than 25 years to get to where we wanted to be… it just breaks our heart.”

Laku, who relocated to Winnipeg in the early 2000s, continues to fear for the safety of his family residing in South Sudan. He noted that while violence is concentrated in specific areas, it could easily spread throughout the nation. Recent reports indicate that an airstrike in early March resulted in the deaths of at least 19 individuals, raising concerns over the potential for widespread conflict.

According to a UN peacekeeping mission, South Sudan is on the verge of relapsing into extensive internal conflict following the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar, who is accused of inciting rebellion among ethnic forces. The civil war in South Sudan, which lasted from 2013 to 2018, resulted in significant casualties, and the peace agreement achieved at its conclusion is now viewed as at risk due to recent political turmoil.

Voices from the community in Winnipeg highlighted their devastation regarding the violence back home. Souka Lofoni, a long-time resident, lamented, “They’re being bombed. They’ve been displaced from their houses.” Lofoni condemned the actions of the South Sudanese government and noted the involvement of foreign powers as exacerbating factors.

Notably, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni’s recent visit to South Sudan has raised alarms within the community, with concerns that his presence may hinder peace efforts. Rally organizer Peter Jack warned that foreign intervention complicates the situation further. The participants urged the Canadian government to take a stance similar to its positions on other international conflicts, advocating for an end to violence in South Sudan.

Supporters at the rally also recognized the importance of internal commitment to peace. Laku asserted that self-determination and a communal effort toward development are vital for achieving lasting peace in South Sudan.

This rally served as a call to action for increased international attention and assistance, underlining the urgent need for peace and stability in South Sudan as its citizens advocate for their rights and safety.

The South Sudanese community in Manitoba is deeply distressed over the resurgence of violence in their homeland, prompting a rally to raise awareness and seek international intervention. Key concerns include the implications of recent government actions, the potential for escalating conflict, and the involvement of foreign nations in the crisis. The community seeks both international support and a unified commitment from South Sudanese citizens to foster peace and development within their country.

Original Source: www.cbc.ca