Cardinal Ameyu expressed hope for lasting peace in South Sudan following a two-year extension of the transitional governance period. He emphasized the importance of preparing for future elections, addressing ongoing violence, and praised the impact of the Tumaini Peace Initiative and Pope Francis’s visit on the country’s peace efforts amid severe humanitarian and economic challenges.
Cardinal Ameyu has expressed optimism for enduring peace in South Sudan, following a two-year extension of the transitional governance period announced by President Salva Kiir’s administration. This decision came in light of the necessity for conducting a national census, drafting a permanent Constitution, and establishing a robust Voter Register prior to holding national elections, previously scheduled for December 2024. The Cardinal emphasized the importance of adequate preparation for the upcoming elections, stating that the Church’s role is primarily to encourage political entities to ensure that all citizens can freely exercise their voting rights when the time arrives. He recognized the ongoing challenges in South Sudan, including pervasive intercommunal violence and the presence of armed groups, despite the peace that has been achieved since the 2018 peace agreement, which ended a devastating five-year civil war. Moreover, Cardinal Ameyu highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, noting that approximately nine million individuals require aid, a staggering 76 percent of the nation’s population. He pointed out that economic hardships and rising crime rates are exacerbating the instability, suggesting that many armed factions operate merely as criminal gangs seeking resources amid widespread poverty. Despite these challenges, the Cardinal commended the progress made under the Tumaini Peace Initiative, launched in May 2024, aimed at unifying various rebel factions under a comprehensive peace framework. He reported that since Pope Francis’s visit to South Sudan in February 2023, there have been notable improvements in the social fabric of the community, with increased church attendance and a surge in individuals seeking sacraments. Cardinal Ameyu observed a reduction in violence and recognized the continued inspiration that Pope Francis’s pilgrimage has provided to the peace efforts in the country.
The situation in South Sudan remains complex as the country grapples with the aftermath of a brutal civil conflict that lasted from 2013 to 2018. The 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict provided a framework for peace; however, the nation continues to experience significant challenges, including economic instability, humanitarian crises, and armed violence, particularly from criminal groups. The recent postponement of elections highlights the government’s struggle to stabilize and prepare for a democratic process, underlining the urgency for thorough political and social reforms to build a sustainable peace.
In summary, Cardinal Ameyu’s outlook on the future of South Sudan is cautiously encouraging. With a focus on the necessary preparations for upcoming elections, adherence to peace initiatives, and the positive aftermath of Pope Francis’s visit, there exists a potential pathway towards lasting peace. Nonetheless, the challenges posed by violence, economic hardship, and humanitarian needs remain significant obstacles that must be addressed collectively by political leaders and the international community.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
