Catholic Bishops of South Sudan Call for Peace and Unity Amid Renewed Violence
”Let us pursue what leads to peace and to build one another up” (Romans 14:19)
In a passionate appeal to both the Government of National Unity and opposition groups, the Catholic Bishops of South Sudan’s Ecclesiastical Province issued a communique expressing deep concern over the escalating violence in the country.
The bishops condemned, in the strongest terms, the recent clashes between government forces, SPLA-IO, and various armed opposition groups, particularly in Jonglei and Eastern Equatoria States.
“We are alarmed and surprised by the total disregard for the full implementation of the revitalized peace agreement,” they stated, citing the suffering of the South Sudanese people as their foremost concern.
Reflecting on previous communications, the bishops underscored their continued commitment to advocating for dialogue and reconciliation. “Last year, we raised our voices twice regarding the plight of our people,” they noted, reiterating calls for unity and peaceful negotiations. “All these conflicts are occurring because genuine dialogue is being sidelined intentionally, while military action is wrongly embraced as a solution to addressing political and social differences.”
During their annual plenary meeting last November at the Catholic Diocese of Malakal, the bishops urged all parties involved in the peace agreement to prioritize the welfare of the South Sudanese citizens. They emphasized the importance of creating confidence among the populace through sincere dialogue and the full implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement for the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
Echoing their sentiments, the bishops expressed concern over increasing violence throughout the nation, including alarming reports of armed robberies even in the capital city, Juba.
“The growing discord within the Unity Government and the attacks and counter-attacks are causing widespread displacement, hunger, and inhumane conditions,” they lamented.
They also decried the dissemination of incendiary messages on social media that incite hatred and tribal sentiments.
“The worst part of this kind of communication is the promotion of tribal sentiments and incitement,” the bishops remarked.
Particularly concerning was the alleged call for violence by Gen. Johnson Olony, Deputy Chief of South Sudan Defense Forces (SSPDF), who directed his forces to “spare no lives” in Jonglei State. The bishops condemned this statement as a direct call to genocide, urging all combatants to refrain from directives that endanger innocent civilians.
“We call on all fighting forces not to heed any directive that risks victimizing innocent civilians and pitting communities against each other.”
In their heartfelt message, the bishops appealed to leaders across the political spectrum to cease hostilities and embrace dialogue.
“The citizens are not properties; they are human beings,” they said. “It is essential to understand their pain, their hunger for peace, and their desire to live in freedom.”
Invoking the words of Pope Francis, the bishops reiterated a crucial message: “No more war. No more bloodshed, no more conflicts, no more violence.” They encouraged all peace-loving individuals to remain hopeful, referencing Romans 5:5, which emphasizes God’s enduring love poured into the hearts of believers.
“To our partners, regional bodies, and the international community, the people of South Sudan appreciate your valuable contributions,” the bishops concluded.
“We urge you not to grow tired of doing what is right for them.”
