 to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, urging them to rise above political differences and focus on the well-being of the people rather than political interests.){kind=link}
The South Sudan Council of Churches is urging the principals of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, urging them to rise above political differences and focus on the well-being of the people rather than political interests.
In a press statement released on March 6, the South Sudan Council of Churches expressed deep concern over the country’s escalating insecurity and political tensions.
Church leaders emphasized that while the R-ARCSS, signed in 2018, remains a beacon of hope, it is being undermined by the ongoing wave of hostilities and the limited political will among the parties involved.
“As shepherds of God’s people, our hearts are heavy with the weight of the escalating insecurity, political tensions, and violence that threaten the peace you and many others have worked so hard to build.
The R-ARCSS remains a gift of hope to the nation—a promise to end the suffering of our people and lay the foundation for a South Sudan where justice, peace, and prosperity prevail,” the Church leaders stated.
The Church leaders also highlighted recent violence in Upper Nile, Western Equatoria, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Southern Warrap, noting that these conflicts have caused the loss of innocent lives, torn families apart, and displaced thousands from their homes.
The Bishops of South Sudan have called for the release of officials detained amid rising tensions, stating, “We call upon your leadership to release those who have been arrested for the sake of peace.”
They also urged leaders to address hostilities across the country and ensure the full implementation of the R-ARCSS, adding, “The future of our nation and that of our children depends on the choices we make today.”
The Church leaders commended the president for his commitment to peace, especially his powerful declaration during the Rome Retreat with Pope Francis, stating,
“I will not take the people of South Sudan back to war,” which has inspired hope among the people. They also acknowledged the president’s efforts to calm tensions along the Sobat River (Ulang and Nasir Counties) in Upper Nile State.
“We stand with you and the people of South Sudan on this journey toward peace, justice, and prosperity,” they concluded.
The South Sudan Council of Churches also called on the people of South Sudan to turn to God during this special time of Lent for guidance and blessings upon the country.