By Lillian Ochoo | Torit
His Lordship Bishop Emmanuel Bernardino Lowi Napeta has called for peace, dialogue and reconciliation following recent violence at the Nakeke Mining Site in Kapoeta South County, Eastern Equatoria State.
Bishop Lowi urged all parties involved to embrace peaceful approaches to resolving the situation, appealing to them to cease hostilities and address their grievances through dialogue rather than confrontation.
In a statement, the Diocese called on all parties to end hostilities and refrain from actions that could lead to further loss of life.
The Bishop encouraged the engagement of community, cattle camp (Kraal), women and youth leaders in discussions aimed at resolving the grievances peacefully.
He also urged security forces and youth to avoid provocation or actions that could escalate tensions, while calling on mining companies to establish Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with local communities to address concerns and prevent future conflicts.
The Diocese further emphasized that individuals suspected of criminal activities should be handed over to the relevant authorities for investigation in accordance with the law.
Bishop Lowi stressed that dialogue, responsible communication, fair accountability and consistent follow-up are essential to resolving the tensions and preventing further violence.
He appealed to the authorities and all those involved to exercise restraint, demonstrate mutual respect and pursue constructive engagement.
The Bishop also encouraged the youth to return peacefully to their cattle camps and resume their livelihoods while promoting peaceful coexistence. He underscored the importance of protecting lives, particularly those of vulnerable groups.
The Diocese expressed solidarity with those affected by the violence and called for the protection of civilians, children and persons with disabilities, as well as safe access to essential health services.
It further urged authorities to ensure that community representatives, including women and youth, have a meaningful voice in discussions with mining companies.
Bishop Lowi emphasized that agreements between mining companies and communities should clearly outline mechanisms for addressing grievances while safeguarding the dignity and rights of everyone involved.
Reports indicate that violence erupted at the Nakeke Mining Site last week, allegedly involving members of the local community and miners, resulting in deaths and scores of injuries.