The Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference urged Sudanese citizens to reject violence and pursue peace, highlighting the severe humanitarian crisis stemming from ongoing conflict since April 2023. They expressed deep concern over the socio-political deterioration in Sudan and called upon regional and international bodies to intervene and support restoration efforts.
The Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SSS-CBC) has called upon the people of Sudan to prioritize peaceful coexistence and abandon violence in light of the escalating conflicts and humanitarian crises plaguing the nation. Following their recent assembly held at the Good Shepherd Peace Center in South Sudan, the Bishops expressed deep concern regarding the worsening socio-political climate as a result of ongoing warfare, which erupted in mid-April 2023 with no resolution in sight. They emphasized that the harsh humanitarian impacts faced by civilians demand the strongest condemnation and urgent action to alleviate suffering.
In their statement released on November 21, the Bishops highlighted the devastating toll that the conflict has taken on the Sudanese population, where thousands have lost their lives and millions have been displaced, seeking safety either within relatively stable regions of Sudan or in neighboring countries. The SSS-CBC members urged the Sudanese to adopt a mindset of unity and collaboration, stating, “We urge the Sudanese people to learn how to survive together, reject violence, and work for peace.”
Moreover, the Bishops appealed to regional stakeholders and international bodies, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the African Union (AU), and the United Nations (UN), to take immediate action to prevent the further deterioration of Sudan and to facilitate a restoration of peace. Their collective call demonstrates the critical urgency in addressing the situation to avert the total disintegration of the country and to foster a sustainable, peaceful environment.
The statement from the SSS-CBC arises amid a backdrop of ongoing conflict in Sudan that initiated in April 2023. Since then, various humanitarian crises have emerged, leading to severe socio-political instability and significant loss of life. The involvement of several international and regional organizations, such as the IGAD and the African Union, highlights the broader implications of the conflict on regional peace and security. The Bishops’ conference aims to not only address the immediate crises but also to promote long-term peace and social harmony among the Sudanese populace.
In conclusion, the statement from the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference underscores the urgent need for peaceful coexistence among the Sudanese people amidst ongoing violence and humanitarian distress. By calling for a collective rejection of violence, the Bishops accentuate the importance of collaboration and unity in overcoming challenges. Furthermore, they appeal to regional and international entities for active involvement to restore stability and peace in Sudan, reinforcing the necessity of dialogue and intervention in these tumultuous times.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
