The South Sudanese community in Manitoba rallied in Winnipeg to protest recent violence and deaths of their compatriots in South Sudan. Community members expressed their devastation and called for justice, stressing the need for international awareness and support while also advocating for self-determination and local commitment to peace. Recent tensions, including the detention of political leaders and foreign involvement, threaten the fragile peace established after years of civil war.
In Winnipeg, the South Sudanese community expressed their sorrow and anger at a rally held at the Manitoba legislature. Protesters voiced concern regarding recent violence and the deaths of fellow South Sudanese at the hands of their government. Martino Laku, a former resident of South Sudan, underscored the community’s heartache over the violence, stating that achieving independence after 25 years now feels overshadowed by current events.
Laku, who has lived in Canada since the early 2000s, remains deeply worried for the safety of his family in South Sudan. He highlighted the precarious situation, explaining how localized violence can escalate rapidly, posing risks to the entire nation.
A recent airstrike by South Sudan’s airforce resulted in the deaths of at least 19 people. This occurred shortly after government forces had withdrawn from the region, leaving the situation tenuous. The UN peacekeeping mission warned that the country is close to re-entering a widespread conflict due to political tensions, particularly the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar.
A civil war ravaging South Sudan from 2013 to 2018 claimed numerous lives and concluded with a peace agreement that is now under threat. Souka Lofoni, a Winnipeg resident, described the situation by saying, “We are devastated. They’re being bombed. They’ve been displaced from their houses.” She expressed concern over the involvement of foreign nations in supporting the South Sudanese government.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s recent visit to South Sudan raised alarms among activists, as his country’s military had previously supported President Kiir’s forces during the civil war. Rally co-organizer Peter Jack remarked on the dangers posed to peace by Museveni’s presence in South Sudan.
Attendees of the rally sought to raise awareness about the deteriorating situation and called upon the Canadian government to act against the resurgence of violence. Lofoni demanded that Canada issue a strong statement condemning the violence, asserting, “Canada should put the voice to end the suffering in South Sudan. Our people have been killed and we don’t see a strong statement that can help.”
Some advocates at the rally emphasized that international support alone would not suffice, insisting that grassroots engagement and a commitment to peace is essential. Laku pointed out that self-determination and unified efforts by the people are crucial for lasting peace in South Sudan.
The South Sudanese community in Manitoba is grieving and protesting the violence plaguing their homeland. Concerns over the government’s actions and the involvement of foreign powers have intensified calls for justice and international intervention. Amidst these alarming developments, community members stress the importance of self-determination and local commitment to peace as vital elements for stabilizing South Sudan’s future.
Original Source: www.cbc.ca
