Inter-Church Committee Appeals for Calm and Peace in Western Equatoria State

By Jackson Gaaniko

The Inter-Church Committee in Yambio, Western Equatoria State, has called on the state government to take immediate action to restore peace and stability in the region, which has been severely impacted by escalating violence and unrest.

Speaking to journalists on Thursday at the State Secretariat in Yambio, Canon Samuel Enosa Peni, Archbishop of Western Equatoria and Chairman of the Diocese of Yambio, 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 in the region.

“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 a climate of fear and confusion among our people.”

The Inter-Church Committee’s appeal for peace comes at a critical time, following the removal of Governor Lt. Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba, a decision that has further complicated the political and security landscape of the state. The committee is urging the state government to take decisive action to restore calm and peace to the region.

“We appeal to the people of Western Equatoria to embrace peace and live in harmony with one another,” 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 United Nations facilities. These spaces must remain sanctuaries, free from violence, and civilians within them should be safeguarded.

“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 current conflict in Western Equatoria,” Peni added.

Additionally, the Inter-Church Committee called on international partners, including CITiSAM, 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 efforts. He emphasized the need for unity and reassurance, saying, “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 Governor Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa of Western Equatoria State also acknowledged the state’s ongoing 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.

Badagbu expressed his gratitude for the initiative by the Inter-Church Committee, urging church 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.”

The Inter-Church Committee’s appeal highlights the urgent need for unity and reconciliation in the wake of political turmoil and violence in Western Equatoria. By urging both the state government and the people to embrace peace, the committee aims to foster an environment conducive to healing and stability in the region.

Members of the Inter-Church Committee include:

Barani Edwardo Kusalla, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tambura-Yambio

Rev. Elinama Jacob Bisi, Assistant Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Sudan and Sudan

Rev. Charles Bandasi Nguari, African Inland Church

Rev. Gabriel Anikpara, Member of the Continuing Evangelical Episcopal Communion