South Sudan: archbishop challenges leaders to stop civil war

July 10, 2015

The leading Catholic prelate of South Sudan has appealed to the country’s people to bring an end to a bloody civil war.

Speaking on July 9, the 4th anniversary of the African country’s independence, Archbishop Paolino Lukudu Loro of Juba said that the armed conflict is adding to the suffering of the country’s people, and the people themselves—but especially their political and military leaders—have the power to end the fighting.

The archbishop disclosed that Church officials have made a new bid to mediate the conflict between the government and rebel forces loyal to a former vice president.

Archbishop Lukudu Loro denounced the atrocities that have occurred during the conflict, and said those who are responsible should repent and ask God’s pardon.

In a similar statement, also issued on the anniversary of independence, Bishop Erkolano Lodu Tombe of Yei said that the parties involved in the country’s conflict must respect fundamental human rights. He urged both sides to be open to peace talks.

 

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Further information:

• Archbishop Lukudu: It is in your power to stop the war (Vatican Radio)
• South Sudan: people's suffering 'indescribable' as civil war aggravates poverty (CWN, 7/9)