Hundreds of Eastern Equatoria residents on Wednesday gathered at Torit Freedom Square to join the nation in lighting candles to commemorate Martyrs Day.
Torit Catholic Diocese Apostolic Administrator Monsignor Thomas Oliha while leading a memorial prayer asked God to grant eternal rest to the martyrs who shed their blood for the liberation of the country and freedom of all citizens, Emmanuel Radio reported.
He prayed for the souls of freedom fighters: Fr Saturlino Ohure, Fr. Leopoldo Anywar, Joseph Oduho, William Deng, Kerebino Kwanyin Bol, William Nyoun and Dr John Garang De Mabior.
Monsignor Oliha thanked God for the gift of peace in Eastern Equatoria during the December crisis and the recent agreement between Mura Hatiha and Tirangore.
He asked God for peace among all tribes of the state and between Toposa of South Sudan and Turkana of Kenya.
Monsignor Oliha prayed for harmony at families and permanent peace in South Sudan through the success of the talks in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Eastern Equatoria Governor Louis Lobong Lojore appealed to individuals to pray for peace in the country, urging citizens to use the Martyrs’ Day to remember and do something tangible for orphans and widows.