The South Sudanese community in Manitoba rallied in Winnipeg to protest violence in their homeland. They condemned recent airstrikes and the government’s actions, expressing a profound sadness for their compatriots affected by the unrest. The community called for Canadian governmental intervention and emphasized the importance of self-determination for peace.
The South Sudanese community in Manitoba recently held a rally to express their anguish over the violence affecting their homeland. This gathering took place at the Manitoba legislature in Winnipeg, where the attendees raised banners and chanted against the killings of their compatriots by the South Sudanese government. Martino Laku, a longtime Winnipeg resident, conveyed the painful sentiment, stating, “It took us more than 25 years to get to where we wanted to be — have an independent country, but seeing this happening now in our country, it just breaks our heart.”
Laku, whose family still resides in South Sudan, highlighted the precarious situation indicating that the violence can escalate beyond its current scope. Recent reports noted an airstrike by the South Sudanese airforce that resulted in the death of at least 19 individuals. This incident came shortly after governmental forces retracted from the area, following confrontations with the White Army, an ethnic militia.
The looming threat of renewed widespread conflict persists, particularly after the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar, a figure accused by the government of inciting rebellion. The prior civil war in South Sudan, marked by deadly clashes between supporters of Machar and President Salva Kiir, claimed countless lives and formally concluded in 2018 through peace agreements.
Community members expressed their despair over the internal strife, with Souka Lofoni describing the dire conditions faced by their compatriots—”They’re being bombed. They’ve been displaced from their houses.” The pleas for international support were further emphasized by rally organizer Peter Jack, who raised concerns about Uganda’s President Museveni visiting South Sudan, stating, “His presence in South Sudan endangers the peace process.”
The rally participants urged for increased awareness and action from the Canadian government to condemn the violence in South Sudan. In their appeal for help, Lofoni asserted, “Canada should put the voice to end the suffering in South Sudan” and emphasized the need for decisive statements to halt the violence.
The community’s call for resolution extended beyond international intervention; they also emphasized the importance of self-determination and unity among South Sudanese citizens to pave the way toward sustainable peace and development in their home country.
The recent rally in Winnipeg organized by the South Sudanese community underscores the growing concern over the violent situation in South Sudan, as residents call for international scrutiny and intervention. Participants expressed deep sorrow and fear for their compatriots, urging Canada and the international community to take action against the escalating violence. Ultimately, the community stressed that genuine peace will require both external support and a strong commitment to unification and development among South Sudanese citizens.
Original Source: www.cbc.ca
