Cardinal Mulla Urges South Sudan Leaders to Respect People's Will in Elections

Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Mulla, Bishop of the Archdiocese of Juba, has urged leaders in South Sudan to respect the will of the people during the upcoming elections. He made the call during a Holy Mass in Torit, emphasizing the Church's support for democracy. The Cardinal stressed that it is the people of South Sudan who must choose their leaders. He encouraged citizens to vote maturely for leaders who will promote the common good.

The Cardinal's message was one of peace, emphasizing that without peace, a better society cannot be built. He called on individuals to compromise and respect each other's rights to exist. The Church's role in promoting peace and civic responsibilities was highlighted, with the Cardinal noting that the Church supports whoever is good for the common good of the people. This message aligns with the Church's ongoing efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

A representative of the State Government, Carlo Andrew, Minister of Agriculture, urged Church leaders to pray for the country's current political and economic situation. He described these challenges as affecting the nation's efforts to build a peaceful society. The Minister commended the Church for its key infrastructure projects, including schools and hospitals, as well as humanitarian agencies providing essential services to communities.

The Minister of Agriculture emphasized the close working relationship between the government and the Church in promoting reconciliation among the people of Eastern Equatoria. He noted that the Church guides spiritual life, and both the government and Church share the objective of upholding human dignity. The collaboration between the government and Church is seen as crucial in supporting the nation's development.

The Mass marked the official opening of the Plenary Assembly of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops. More than 10 bishops, clergy, and heads of Catholic institutions gathered in Torit for the annual assembly, which will end on November 13, 2026. The assembly provides a platform for Church leaders to discuss key issues affecting the region and promote peace and stability.

The Cardinal's call for leaders to respect the people's will in elections is significant, given the country's history of conflict and instability. The upcoming elections present an opportunity for South Sudan to consolidate its democratic gains and promote peace and stability. The Church's role in promoting democracy and peace will be crucial in shaping the country's future.

The Church's infrastructure projects and humanitarian agencies have made a significant impact on communities in South Sudan. The government's recognition of the Church's efforts highlights the importance of collaboration between the government and Church in promoting development and peace. The Plenary Assembly of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops will continue to discuss key issues affecting the region and promote peace and stability.

Key points

• Cardinal Mulla urges South Sudan leaders to respect the people's will in upcoming elections.
• The Church supports democracy and promotes peace and stability in South Sudan.
• The government and Church are working together to promote reconciliation and development in Eastern Equatoria.