His Lordship Bishop Emmanuel Bernardino Lowi Napeta has appealed for calm and peaceful resolution of the conflict that recently erupted at the Nakeke Mining Site in Kapoeta South County, Eastern Equatoria State, South Sudan. The Bishop's call comes in the wake of violent clashes reportedly involving members of the local community and miners, resulting in an unspecified number of fatalities and injuries. According to reports, the violence started last week.
Bishop Lowi has urged all parties involved to adopt peaceful approaches in resolving their differences, emphasizing the need for dialogue and reconciliation. In a statement released through the Diocese, the Bishop encouraged community, cattle camp, women, and youth leaders to engage in discussions aimed at resolving grievances peacefully. He also appealed to security forces and youth to avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
The Diocese has called on all parties to cease hostilities and refrain from actions that could lead to further loss of life. Bishop Lowi stressed that individuals suspected of criminal activities should be handed over to the relevant authorities for investigation in accordance with the law. This, he said, would help in promoting accountability and addressing the root causes of the conflict.
To prevent future conflicts, Bishop Lowi has urged mining companies to establish Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with local communities to address concerns. He emphasized that such agreements should clearly outline mechanisms for addressing grievances while safeguarding the dignity and rights of everyone involved. This, according to the Bishop, would help in promoting peaceful coexistence between the local communities and miners.
The Diocese has expressed solidarity with those affected by the violence and called for the protection of civilians, children, and persons with disabilities. They also urged authorities to ensure that community representatives, including women and youth, have a meaningful voice in discussions with mining companies. This, the Bishop said, would help in addressing the concerns of all parties involved.
Bishop Lowi has appealed to the youth to return peacefully to their cattle camps and resume their livelihoods while promoting peaceful coexistence. He underscored the importance of protecting lives, particularly those of vulnerable groups. The Bishop also encouraged the authorities and all those involved to exercise restraint, demonstrate mutual respect, and pursue constructive engagement.
The Catholic Radio Network reported that Bishop Lowi's message was conveyed through a statement released by the Diocese. The Bishop's call for peace and dialogue has been seen as a significant step towards resolving the conflict and promoting peaceful coexistence in the region.
Key points
- Bishop Lowi calls for peace, dialogue, and reconciliation following violence at the Nakeke Mining Site.
- The Diocese urges all parties to cease hostilities and refrain from actions that could lead to further loss of life.
- Bishop Lowi emphasizes the importance of protecting lives, particularly those of vulnerable groups.
