The bishops of South Sudan and Sudan express serious concerns about the postponed democratic elections in South Sudan, which jeopardize hopes for peace. They call for the implementation of existing peace agreements and the rapid adoption of a new constitution. In Sudan, they decry the humanitarian crisis stemming from ongoing violence and emphasize the importance of respecting humanitarian laws.
Juba (Agenzia Fides) – The bishops of South Sudan and Sudan have expressed grave concerns regarding the ongoing postponement of democratic elections in South Sudan, stating that such delays diminish the prospects for lasting peace. Their remarks came at the conclusion of a meeting focusing on peace in the two nations, held in Kit, in South Sudan’s Eastern Equatoria state.
The region continues to grapple with the aftermath of a civil war initiated in December 2013, pitting President Salva Kiir against Vice President Riek Machar. Although a peace agreement was reached in 2018 (Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan – R-ARCSS), and subsequently supplemented by the Tumaini Consensus, signifying a commitment to detailed action plans, these were never fully implemented.
The anticipated elections, initially set for this year, have now been postponed to February 2027, exacerbating concerns among the clergy. The bishops implore the South Sudanese government and opposition factions to hasten the fulfillment of the 2018 R-ARCSS milestones and finalize the Tumaini Consensus expeditiously. Furthermore, they emphasize the urgent need for a new constitution and encourage sustained support from the international community to aid South Sudan in achieving stability.
Additionally, tensions were highlighted by recent violent incidents in South Sudan, including a shootout in Juba surrounding the arrest of the former head of the National Security Service, Akol Koor Kuc, a dismissal perceived as symptomatic of an internal conflict within the ruling regime.
In Sudan, the bishops lament the catastrophic toll of the ongoing civil war, which commenced on April 15, 2023, resulting in significant loss of life and displacement of millions. They call for the warring factions to honor humanitarian laws, urging them to allow essential aid to reach those in dire need. The bishops’ statements underline the necessity for sustained attention and action towards peace and stability in both countries.
The situation in South Sudan and Sudan is marked by significant political upheaval and humanitarian crises. South Sudan has been embroiled in conflict since its independence in 2011, with a severe civil war erupting in 2013 involving key political leaders. Despite several peace agreements, including the R-ARCSS and Tumaini Consensus, the timing for elections and implementation of reforms remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Sudan has been affected by an intensified crisis since April 2023, leading to widespread suffering and displacement. The bishops’ appeal highlights the urgent need for political accountability and humanitarian support in both nations.
The bishops of South Sudan and Sudan raise urgent alarms about the deteriorating political climate in South Sudan, marked by delayed elections and the threat of a humanitarian crisis in Sudan. They call for immediate action to adhere to peace agreements and constitutional commitments, as well as respect for humanitarian law by all parties involved in the conflict. The international community is urged to play a crucial role in easing the suffering of civilians and supporting a path towards stability and peace.
Original Source: www.fides.org
