The Inter-Church Committee in Yambio, Western Equatoria, has called on the state government to restore peace and stability, which have been severely affected by escalating violence.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday at the State Secretariat in Yambio, the Archbishop of Western Equatoria and Chairman of the Diocese of Yambio, Canon Samuel Enosa Peni, expressed deep concern over the ongoing military confrontations within the Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU).
Peni highlighted the devastating effects of these confrontations, including loss of life, widespread destruction of property, displacement, and an atmosphere of fear and confusion.
“We are deeply disturbed by the level of unrest and violence affecting Western Equatoria State,” said Peni. “We are witnessing military confrontations that have led to the loss of lives, the destruction of property, and the displacement of many families. This situation is creating fear and confusion among our people.”
The Inter-Church Committee’s appeal follows the removal of Governor Alfred Futuyo Karaba, a decision that has further complicated the political and security landscape of the state.
“We appeal to the people of Western Equatoria to embrace peace and live in harmony,” Peni continued. “Acts of revenge and targeting individuals based on their political affiliations, group membership, or community ties do not promote peace or coexistence.”
The committee also emphasized the importance of protecting civilians who seek refuge in neutral spaces such as churches, mosques, hospitals, schools, and UN facilities.
“We urge the Government of National Unity to use the peace agreement outlined in the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) to address the conflict in Western Equatoria,” Peni added.
The Inter-Church Committee called on international partners to honor their commitments in supporting the peace process in the region.
Bishop Edwardo Hiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tambura-Yambio spoke about the role of church leaders in peace-building. He emphasized the need for unity and reassurance.
“As church leaders, we are here to support you in bringing peace and calming the situation. We understand the fears of the people, and we are committed to working together to bring harmony. People are living in fear because they are uncertain about the future. By engaging with the people, we will restore confidence and ensure that peace will prevail.”
Acting Western Equatoria Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa also acknowledged the state’s challenges.
“We are facing significant challenges. The removal of Governor Futuyo has added to the complexity, but we remain committed to working with all stakeholders, including the SPLM-IO, to address these issues,” he said.
Rimbasa expressed his gratitude for the initiative by the Inter-Church Committee and urged the leaders to continue spreading the message of peace and unity.
“I kindly ask the church leaders to work with us in ensuring that the message of peace reaches every corner of the state. Together, we can bring sanity and tranquility to Western Equatoria,” he said.
The members of the Inter-Church Committee include Kussala, the Rev. Elinama Jacob Bisi, the Assistant Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Sudan and Sudan, the Rev. Charles Bandasi Nguari of the African Inland Church, and the Rev. Gabriel Anikpara, a Member of the Continuing Evangelical Episcopal Communion and Bishop’s Commissary.