The South Sudan Council of Churches appealed to the government Monday to build confidence ahead of Christmas and the New Year by releasing political detainees, part of an effort to ease tensions and revive inclusive dialogue.
The appeal comes after the government endorsed amendments to the 2018 peace agreement, removing articles it says blocked the path to 2026 elections. While adopted by several parties to the deal, the group led by suspended First Vice President Riek Machar said it was excluded, raising concerns over inclusivity in the process spearheaded by President Salva Kiir.
Machar, who is now on trial, is among a group of officials under house arrest in Juba, which includes former vice president Benjamin Bol Mel and former intelligence chief Gen. Akol Koor.
Speaking at a news conference in Juba, Rev. Justin Badi Arama, the council’s chairperson, said the festive season arrives during immense hardship for ordinary South Sudanese, marked by economic suffering, insecurity and a lack of trust in political leadership.
“Christmas this year comes amidst harsh economic challenges, much violence and killing taking place, and our people who struggle to make ends meet and work for daily bread and desire only peace, continue to suffer,” Badi said.
He said public confidence has been badly damaged by the repeated failure to fully implement peace agreements and urged political leaders to abandon war and pursue honest dialogue.
“We urge our leaders to stop all forms of war, for there is no victory in war,” he said, adding that dialogue must be grounded in truth and forgiveness.
Badi stressed the government should demonstrate a commitment to reconciliation by freeing political opponents who are detained or facing politically motivated charges.
“Every dialogue starts with true forgiveness, and the government of South Sudan should lead by example by releasing all those political opponents with whatever political charges, detained and undergoing court trials in Juba,” he said.
He called for opening a “new page” through inclusive political dialogue involving all stakeholders, including holdout groups, saying only a broad-based process can restore peace and unity.
Addressing the public, Badi encouraged South Sudanese not to lose hope despite difficult circumstances, saying the message of Christmas remains joy, renewal and peace. Quoting the Gospel of Luke, he said: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”
The council also appealed to regional and international partners to continue supporting peace efforts, warning that widespread frustration and hopelessness are growing among citizens.
“The people of South Sudan have suffered a lot, and they deserve to be given peace,” Badi said, calling on international actors to engage with courage and renewed commitment.
South Sudan has struggled with persistent political tensions and sporadic violence years after signing peace agreements meant to end conflict and stabilize the country.