Sudanese Catholic Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali escaped execution while returning to his diocese following a Eucharistic congress. He faced severe abuse by Rapid Support Forces but was ultimately released. The ongoing civil war in Sudan has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, prompting calls for humanitarian aid and peace discussions.
On December 2, Sudanese Catholic Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali of El Obeid reported a harrowing experience of narrowly escaping execution amidst the ongoing civil conflict in Sudan. Following a Eucharistic congress in Juba, South Sudan, the bishop encountered both the Sudan Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during his return. In his account, Bishop Andali described being subjected to severe physical abuse by the RSF, highlighting the precarious nature of his situation during separate incidents with different armed groups.
Upon returning from his trip to Juba, Bishop Andali was intercepted at an army checkpoint where soldiers confiscated some of his money, falsely accusing him of carrying “forbidden currency.” Shortly thereafter, he was apprehended by members of the RSF, who intended to execute him. Remarkably, divine intervention occurred when a leader of the RSF ordered his release, asserting the power of prayer among the church community. Despite the ordeal, he confirmed that he sustained only minor injuries and expressed his desire to continue serving his congregation amidst the violence.
The ongoing turmoil in Sudan began on April 15, 2023, due to escalating tensions between military leadership and paramilitary factions, resulting in a devastating humanitarian crisis. Many clergy members have been forced to flee, yet Bishop Andali has remained dedicated to his faithful. His experiences exemplified the dire consequences of the conflict, with an estimated 61,000 lives lost and millions displaced, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and dialogue for peace.
Sudan has been engulfed in a civil war since April 2023, instigated by a power struggle between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. This conflict has led to catastrophic humanitarian repercussions, including widespread death and displacement of civilians. The Catholic Church, a minority in a predominantly Muslim country, serves a critical role in providing support and guidance to its faithful during this tumultuous time. Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali’s experiences reflect the broader struggles faced by religious leaders in war-torn regions, where violence often threatens their lives and missions.
In summary, Bishop Yunan Tombe Trille Kuku Andali’s narrow escape from execution sheds light on the brutal realities faced by individuals in Sudan amidst ongoing civil conflict. His commitment to his congregation amidst danger emphasizes the resilience of faith in the face of adversity. The ongoing war has resulted in a humanitarian disaster, highlighting the urgent call for peace and support for affected populations.
Original Source: www.ncronline.org
