Catholic Bishops condemned the murder of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan, calling it a “heinous act” and urged against retaliation. A national curfew was imposed in South Sudan after violent protests erupted related to the killings. The conflict in Sudan has led to significant loss of life and displacement since April 2023.
Catholic Bishops from both Sudan and South Sudan have issued a strong condemnation regarding the recent murder of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan, characterizing the acts as “heinous” and fueled by hatred and oppression. In their statement, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, President of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, urged South Sudanese individuals to avoid retaliation against Sudanese residents in South Sudan following these tragic events.
In response to violent riots in Juba related to the alleged killings, South Sudan’s police enforced a national curfew beginning at 6 p.m. The protests were ignited by the reports of South Sudanese deaths allegedly caused by the Sudanese army and its allied factions. Since the onset of the conflict in Sudan on April 15, 2023, initiated between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces, the death toll has escalated significantly, with millions displaced and facing severe food insecurity.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has been marked by violence since April 2023, has exacerbated humanitarian crises in the region, affecting South Sudanese citizens both within Sudan and their homeland. The clashes between military factions have led to widespread instability, resulting in protests and unrest among the South Sudanese community. Religious leaders are increasingly calling for peace and reconciliation to prevent further violence and suffering.
The recent violence has unfortunately highlighted the vulnerability of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan amid ongoing conflict. The call from Catholic Bishops reinforces the importance of avoiding violent retribution, as retaliation could further complicate an already dire situation. As the situation unfolds, continued dialogue and efforts towards peace between communities remain crucial.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org