Cardinal Ameyu of Juba urges restraint following retaliatory attacks against Sudanese refugees in South Sudan after alleged killings by Sudanese soldiers. Violence erupted in response to ethnic-based brutality, resulting in injuries and fatalities among Sudanese nationals. The Cardinal emphasizes compassion and understanding, condemning oppressive violence and advocating for unity among communities.
In South Sudan, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla of Juba has called for restraint and compassion amidst a surge of violence following the alleged killings of South Sudanese refugees in Sudan. Reports indicate that 16 Sudanese individuals were killed and many injured during confrontations involving local youth and security forces, who reacted violently against Sudanese nationals in various towns.
The unrest was triggered by a video depicting Sudan Armed Forces soldiers allegedly killing South Sudanese civilians in Wad Madani city during clashes for control of the area. Eyewitness accounts suggest that these attacks were ethnically motivated, with a significant number of victims, including children, among the deceased.
Cardinal Ameyu urged his fellow South Sudanese citizens to refrain from seeking vengeance, emphasizing the need for compassion despite the understandable anger and pain resulting from such atrocities. “While the pain and anger stemming from these events are understandable, we implore you to refrain from seeking revenge against refugees here in our nation,” he stated.
He categorized the murders of South Sudanese civilians as heinous acts, advocating for condemnation of violence rooted in hatred and oppression. The cardinal expressed solidarity with grieving families while the government imposed a night curfew nationwide to control the violence.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has roots in a power struggle that erupted on April 15, 2023, leading to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis characterized by targeted violence against marginalized groups, particularly in the Darfur and Gezira regions.
Cardinal Ameyu highlighted the necessity for unity and healing, referring to oppressive regimes that dehumanize individuals based on their ethnicity, ideology, or political views. He called upon the community to foster inclusive environments where every individual feels safe and respected.
Recently, the United States imposed sanctions against army chief al-Burhan for actions undermining the prospect of a democratic transition in Sudan, which have included lethal attacks on civilians and systemic human rights violations. The U.S. government has referred to the actions of the Rapid Support Forces as genocide, depicting a scene of chaos in the country.
In the context of the current civil war in Sudan, the violence has escalated following the distressing incidents involving South Sudanese refugees. Rooted in ethnic tensions and political power struggles, the chaos has led to numerous attacks against vulnerable populations, intensifying fears and retaliation within the South Sudanese community. Cardinal Ameyu’s call for restraint reflects broader concerns over the escalating violence and its potential to incite further conflict among already traumatized populations.
The situation in South Sudan and Sudan, marked by increasing violence and humanitarian crises, has drawn urgent responses from religious and international leaders alike. Cardinal Ameyu’s plea for compassion and restraint represents a critical voice amidst growing tensions. As both nations grapple with their histories of conflict and oppression, fostering unity and understanding becomes vital in preventing further cycles of revenge and violence.
Original Source: www.detroitcatholic.com
