Catholic Bishops condemned the murder of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan as a heinous act. Cardinal Stephen Ameyu urged the community to refrain from revenge while South Sudan imposed a nationwide curfew after protests erupted over these killings. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has caused mass displacement and suffering.
Catholic Bishops from Sudan and South Sudan issued a strong condemnation of the recent killings of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan, labeling these acts as a “heinous act” that stems from deep-seated hatred and oppression. In a statement released on January 17, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, the President of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, urged South Sudanese individuals to avoid seeking vengeance against Sudanese residents in South Sudan in response to these tragedies.
The situation escalated on January 17, when South Sudan’s police enforced a nationwide curfew beginning at 6 p.m. following violent protests in the capital, which erupted over allegations of the South Sudanese being killed by the Sudanese army and affiliated groups in Sudan. The turmoil in Sudan, which began on April 15, 2023, has caused widespread devastation, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths, the displacement of millions, and severe food shortages affecting countless others.
Reports indicate that at least three individuals lost their lives, and seven others sustained injuries during the unrest that followed the horrific killings. The ongoing conflict in Sudan involves the Rapid Support Forces, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, clashing with army units loyal to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, a key figure in Sudan’s transitional governing body.
The ongoing conflict between the RSF and SAF in Sudan has resulted in widespread violence, causing significant humanitarian crises. Millions have been displaced or face extreme hunger as the fighting continues, creating a volatile environment that impacts neighboring countries, including South Sudan. The relationship between the two nations is further strained by the violence against South Sudanese nationals, prompting concern among church leaders and government officials about escalating tensions and calls for retaliation.
In conclusion, the Catholic Bishops’ condemnation of the killings of South Sudanese citizens underscores the urgency of addressing the violence stemming from the conflict in Sudan. The situation necessitates a call for peace, restraint, and dialogue among affected communities to prevent further escalation and promote healing. The bishops’ plea for non-violence highlights the importance of solidarity and understanding amidst the ongoing turmoil.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
