Catholic Bishops in Sudan and South Sudan are urging citizens to embrace peace and unity amidst ongoing conflict. In a recent statement, they condemned the humanitarian crisis resulting from the civil war that began in April 2023 and called for action from local and international bodies to restore peace and stability.
The Catholic Bishops of Sudan and South Sudan have issued a clarion call for peace, urging the Sudanese populace to foster unity and reject violence in the face of ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises. Their recent meeting from November 12 to 19, held at the Good Shepherd Peace Center in Juba, underscored their deep concern regarding the country’s deteriorating socio-political landscape, which stems from the civil war that began in mid-April 2023.
In a statement released on November 21, the bishops lamented the significant loss of life and the displacement of millions of Sudanese, emphasizing that the humanitarian plight has reached intolerable levels and requires immediate condemnation. They appealed to the Sudanese people to learn the necessary skills for mutual survival and to prioritize peaceful coexistence.
Furthermore, the bishops called upon external entities, including Sudan’s neighbors, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations (UN), to prioritize interventions aimed at restoring peace and preventing further disintegration of Sudan. Their plea highlights the urgent need for dialogue and collaborative efforts to achieve lasting stability in the region.
The situation in Sudan has been alarming since the outbreak of civil war in April 2023, leading to escalating violence and significant humanitarian crises. Thousands have lost their lives while millions have sought refuge in safer areas within and outside Sudan. The continuous conflict has raised concerns among various stakeholders, including religious leaders who emphasize the importance of peace and coexistence among the Sudanese people.
In conclusion, the Catholic Bishops have emphasized the critical importance of rejecting violence and embracing unity among the Sudanese as a pathway to enduring peace. Their message not only addresses the immediate humanitarian crisis but also calls for a concerted effort from local and international stakeholders to foster dialogue and avert further disintegration of the nation.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
