Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali of El Obeid narrowly escaped execution amid Sudan’s civil war. After severe encounters with the Sudan Armed Forces and paramilitary RSF, he attributes his survival to the prayers of the church. The ongoing conflict has resulted in enormous humanitarian crises, with thousands dead and millions displaced. The bishop remains committed to his faithful despite the challenges, echoing calls for peace and unity in Sudan.
On December 2, 2023, Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali of El Obeid recounted an alarming near-execution experience amidst the ongoing civil conflict in Sudan. Following a Eucharistic congress in Juba, South Sudan, he faced violent encounters with both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during his return. Bishop Andali, traveling with a deacon named Joseph, was subjected to severe physical abuse at the hands of the RSF but ultimately spared due to the intervention of a paramilitary leader. The bishop emphasized the power of prayer in his survival but expressed deep concern for the humanitarian crisis affecting millions in Sudan, noting that he remains committed to his parish despite the war’s dangers.
In a letter to his fellow bishops, the bishop described the harrowing experiences he endured near the South Sudanese border town of Renk. After being stopped at an army checkpoint, soldiers seized some money under the false pretext that it was forbidden currency, allowing him to leave afterwards. Immediately thereafter, he fell into the hands of the RSF where he faced imminent danger, indicating that orders for execution were felt by him and his companion. Fortunately, a paramilitary leader intervened just in time, allowing the bishop and his deacon to escape further harm.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which erupted in April 2023 over escalating tensions between military leaders, has profoundly impacted the country. An estimated 61,000 people have lost their lives due to the violence, and millions have been displaced. According to recent reports, 25 million individuals are in dire need of humanitarian assistance. The Sudanese Christian community, which constitutes around 5.4% of the population, has experienced significant challenges, with bishops urging unity and peace among the Sudanese people in light of the chaos. Bishop Andali remains steadfast in his commitment to serve his congregation despite these challenges, emphasizing the critical need for humanitarian support and dialogue to resolve the conflict.
Bishop Andali stated, “Thanks to the prayers of the church, I was saved.” He also voiced his intent to see a doctor for the grievous injuries he sustained and reassured his fellow priests of his stable condition, albeit with lingering pain. The bishop’s narrative underscores the harrowing reality for many living in conflict zones and the imperative for humanitarian assistance and dialogue to overcome the destruction wrought by war.
The situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate as civilians bear the brunt of the conflict. Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, president of the Sudan and South Sudan bishops’ conference, has adamantly called for peaceful coexistence and urged the people of Sudan to reject violence for a sustainable future.
The civil war in Sudan, which began on April 15, 2023, is the result of deep-rooted tensions between military factions led by General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and paramilitary commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. This conflict has been devastating for civilians, with reports indicating that over 61,000 people have died and millions have been displaced. The humanitarian crisis is severe, affecting 25 million individuals in need of assistance as communities struggle for survival amidst relentless violence. The Sudanese Christian community, though a minority, faces specific challenges, with bishops calling for an end to the suffering and advocating for unity among the people.
The story of Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali illustrates the grave risks faced by religious leaders in conflict zones such as Sudan. His experiences underline the urgent need for international attention to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the country. As he navigates the dangers of war to remain with his congregation, the call for peace and collaboration among all Sudanese citizens becomes ever more pertinent. Efforts to restore dialogue and alleviate suffering are crucial to ensure a more peaceful future for the people of Sudan.
Original Source: www.ncronline.org
