The Holy Father, Pope Francis has told leaders in South Sudan to reconcile among themselves in order to make lasting peace for the citizens of the country.
The Holy Father, while meeting the Presidency at the Presidential Palace, called on leaders to refrain from bad politics that involves bloodshed, war, conflict and more forms of violence in the young nation South Sudan.
“No more bloodshed, no more conflicts, no more violence and mutual recriminations about who is responsible for it, no more leaving your people a thirst for peace. No more destruction: it is time to build! Leave the time of war behind and let a time of peace dawn!”
“Dear President and Vice-Presidents, in the name of God, of the God to whom we prayed together in Rome, of the God who is gentle and humble in heart, the God in whom so many people of this beloved country believe, now is the time to say “No more of this”, without “ifs” or “buts”. Pope Francis added.
The pontiff described South Sudan as the great land of abundance, a young nation with an ancient history and abundant resources.
He called on the leaders to renew the life of society as pure sources of prosperity and peace which is greatly needed for the sons and daughters of South Sudan.
“So it is not enough simply to be called a Republic; it is necessary to be one, starting with the primary goods. The abundant resources with which God has blessed this land should not be restricted to a few, but recognised as the legacy of all, and plans for economic recovery should coincide with proposals for an equitable distribution of wealth.”
For his part, President Kiir in his welcoming remarks, promised a positive impact of a lasting peace to the Holy father’s ecumenical visit and pilgrimage of peace to South Sudan.
“Your visit will leave a positive impact on our national consigns and peace in our country, your presence amidst us today is a historic milestone.” Kiir said.
The head of state, expresses government’s commitment towards peace implantation with the peace parties.
“We as the parties to the agreement are working together in the spirit of dialogue to overcome challenges before us and we will remain committed until peace is firmly consolidated in South Sudan” President Kiir added.
Pope Francis routed from DR Congo after a 3-day pastoral visit together with the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, and the Moderator General of the Church of Scotland Right Reverend Iain Greenshields.