The Archbishop of the Juba Metropolitan Catholic Archdiocese, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mula, on Friday condemned the recent killing of South Sudanese in Sudan’s Al Jazira State.
The killing of South Sudanese citizens by elements affiliated with the Sudanese army in Wad Madani of Al Jazira State sparked protests in Juba and other parts of the country on Thursday night and Friday morning.
Early this week, gruesome videos circulating on social media of South Sudanese killed in Wad Madani, the capital of Al Jazirah State, raised concern about the safety of thousands who have been stranded in Sudan.
Wad Madani, located 87 miles (140 km) south of Khartoum, was seized by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) about a year ago, before being recaptured by the Sudanese military on Saturday.
Addressing a press conference in Juba, Cardinal Ameyu said the cold-blooded murder of the innocent is a heinous act that the united church and society must unreservedly condemn.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, and we stand in solidarity with those who grieve this unbearable tragedy. We must remember that the driving forces behind these acts of violence are oppressive regimes and systems that dehumanize individuals for their ethnicity, beliefs, or political affiliations,” Ameyu said.
“In light of these atrocities, we appeal to our beloved South Sudanese people to exercise restraint and compassion while the pain and anger stemming from these events are understandable.
“We implore you to refrain from seeking revenge against Sudanese refugees in our nation. Many of these individuals are fleeing the same tyrannic government that has perpetrated violence against us. They too, are victims of a brutal system that shows no mercy,” he added.
The prelate said the call of the church is grounded in the principles of love, forgiveness, and understanding that Christ teaches; “revenge only begets more violence and suffering, deepening the cycle of hatred”.
“Let us extend our hands in solidarity to those who sought shelter among us, recognizing their plight as part of our shared human experience,” he said.
“We are proud of the spirit of unity and resilience that characterizes our South Sudanese communities. We must work towards healing and rebuilding, fostering an environment where every individual can feel safe and valued, regardless of their religion,” he went on.