The South Sudan Council of Churches urges leaders to prioritize peace and dialogue as the country faces escalating violence. They commend efforts towards maintaining peace and emphasize the detrimental impact of recent hostilities, calling for the release of detained officials. The SSCC is committed to fostering reconciliation among South Sudanese amid ongoing political tensions. The involvement of external bodies, such as the United Nations, highlights the critical need for cooperation in addressing unrest.
The South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC) issued a press statement on March 6, emphasizing the urgency for leaders of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) to prioritize dialogue over political rivalry. The SSCC expressed deep concern about escalating insecurity and political tensions harming the populace. They reminded leaders of the hope embodied in the 2018 agreement, which is now threatened by rising hostilities and a lack of political will.
In their statement, church leaders highlighted the devastating impact of recent violence in regions like Upper Nile, Western Equatoria, and Western Bahr el Ghazal, noting that conflicts have led to loss of lives and significant displacement. They implored leaders to release detained officials as a gesture of commitment to peace, urging immediate action to address the violence pervasive across the nation.
Additionally, the SSCC commended leadership efforts to foster peace, citing a declaration by a leader during a Rome Retreat with the Holy Father, emphasizing the need for South Sudan to remain at peace. They acknowledged recent governmental actions taken to de-escalate tension in Upper Nile State, specifically along the Sobat River.
The SSCC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting rehabilitation throughout South Sudan, emphasizing healing, forgiveness, and national unity. Church members vowed to engage in prayer and support efforts aimed at ensuring the common good, while urging the populace to seek divine guidance and blessings from God during the Lenten season.
Recent tensions have been attributed to unrest in Upper Nile, compounded by accusations against military leaders concerning alliances with rebel forces. Reports from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan highlighted ongoing clashes in Nasir County, which have resulted in casualties among both civilians and military personnel. Despite the struggles, the hope for peace remains essential as South Sudan continues to navigate its post-independence challenges.
The South Sudan Council of Churches calls for unity and dialogue among the leaders of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan to ensure peace and resolve escalating tensions. The voices of the church leaders reflect a profound commitment to healing and reconciliation, as they urge political figures to prioritize the welfare of the citizens. In light of surrounding violence and insecurity, the need for cooperation and adherence to peace agreements is emphasized as critical for the nation’s future.
Original Source: communications.amecea.org
