The widespread availability of arms and a deep-seated lack of trust among communities and leaders remain the most significant barriers to peace in South Sudan, the head of the South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC) warned.
Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Tuesday, Rev. Justin Badi Arama, who leads the SSCC and serves as primate of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan, emphasized that persistent violence in regions like Upper Nile State, where recent clashes have displaced thousands, underscores the fragility of the nation’s stability.
“The biggest threat to peace is the lack of trust,” Rev. Badi said. “Political leaders do not trust each other, civilians distrust the security forces, and even the organized forces mistrust civilians.”
He attributed the country’s instability in part to the proliferation of weapons among civilians, armed groups, and military factions, urging authorities to prioritize nationwide disarmament as a cornerstone of peace-building efforts.
Rev. Badi called on political leaders to reject retaliation and engage in dialogue to avert further violence. “Choosing violence only deepens our crisis,” he said. “Leaders must remain calm and pursue peaceful solutions.”
Acknowledging the painstaking progress toward lasting stability, Rev. Badi likened the peace process to “planting seeds that require patience and care,” while urging citizens to hold onto hope. Religious leaders, he said, would persist in advocating for reconciliation despite political resistance.
“We will keep speaking, praying, and reminding leaders of their duties—even if they seem unresponsive,” he said. “Peace is possible if we steadfastly reject revenge and embrace forgiveness.”
Rev. Badi also stressed the importance of collaboration among religious groups, civil society, and international partners to advance sustainable development and security.
Rev. Badi’s appeal comes amid rising political tensions in South Sudan. Last week, clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and those aligned with First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar resulted in several deaths, including a senior military commander.
South Sudan continues to grapple with sporadic violence despite a 2018 peace agreement intended to end a devastating five-year civil war.