South Sudan's church leaders have appealed for international support as the country prepares for its first elections since gaining independence in 2011. A delegation from the South Sudan Council of Churches addressed a private meeting at Lambeth Palace, hosted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Most Rev Dame Sarah Mullally. The meeting was attended by ecumenical leaders, faith-based NGOs, and government officials.
The South Sudan Council of Churches' General Secretary, Rev Tut Kony Nyang Kon, wrote to attendees, asking them not to forget South Sudan and to continue partnering with the country as it redoubles its efforts for peace. In response, Dame Sarah, the Archbishop of Westminster Most Rev Richard Moth, and the Moderator of the Church of Scotland, Rt Rev Gordon Kennedy, expressed their commitment to standing in solidarity with South Sudan.
The letter from the Archbishops and the Moderator of the Church of Scotland also acknowledged the extreme conditions faced by much of South Sudan's population, including acute food shortages, internal displacement, and the daily threat of violence. They expressed their lament and sorrow for the situation, citing the biblical phrase "we weep with those who weep."
Christian Aid supported the delegation's UK visit, which included meetings with politicians and church leaders. The organization works with partners in South Sudan to address the country's humanitarian needs. South Sudan faces significant challenges, including national and regional conflict, the impacts of climate change, and high levels of acute food insecurity.
President Salva Kiir has called for the country's first elections since independence to take place in December. The elections are seen as a crucial step towards consolidating peace and stability in the country. However, the church leaders' appeal for international support highlights the need for sustained engagement and assistance.
The South Sudan Council of Churches plays a vital role in promoting peace and reconciliation in the country. The organization's efforts are complemented by those of other faith-based organizations and NGOs working in South Sudan. The UK visit by the SSCC delegation aimed to raise awareness about the situation in South Sudan and to mobilize support for the country's peace process.
The international community has been urged to remain engaged with South Sudan and to provide ongoing support for the country's development and peacebuilding efforts. The church leaders' appeal emphasizes the need for continued partnership and solidarity with South Sudan as it navigates its complex challenges.
Key points
- South Sudan's church leaders appeal for international support ahead of first elections since independence
- The country's first elections since 2011 are set to take place in December
- Church leaders emphasize the need for sustained engagement and assistance to address South Sudan's humanitarian needs
