The Government of Eastern Equatoria State has urged Catholic bishops from Sudan and South Sudan to play a stronger role in promoting peace, national unity, and reconciliation. This call was made by former deputy governor Karlo Andrew Akwo during the opening of the 52nd Plenary Assembly of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops' Conference in Torit. The conference brings together Catholic bishops from both countries to discuss pressing issues.
Karlo Andrew Akwo, speaking on behalf of Caretaker Governor General Louis Lobong Lojore, described the gathering as a historic and significant spiritual event for the two neighbouring countries. He noted that the conference was the 52nd in the history of the Catholic Church in Sudan and South Sudan and the second of its kind to be hosted in Eastern Equatoria State. The event aims to foster greater collaboration and understanding between the two countries.
The Government of Eastern Equatoria State commended the Catholic Church for its longstanding contribution to essential social services, particularly in education, healthcare, vocational training, and humanitarian assistance. The Church's extensive infrastructure and service delivery in schools, vocational training centres, hospitals, clinics, and rural dispensaries have significantly supported communities and eased the burden on government institutions. This support has been invaluable in addressing the needs of the people.
Karlo recognised the Church as an important moral voice in society, acknowledging its contribution to peacebuilding, ethical leadership, family values, and civic responsibility. The representative emphasised that the Church's role in promoting peace, ethical leadership, and family values is crucial in shaping the moral fabric of society. The government appreciates the Church's efforts in this regard.
The address also highlighted the complementary relationship between the Church and government, describing both institutions as important pillars in promoting national stability and human dignity. Karlo emphasised that the state handles secular governance, while the Church guides spiritual life. Both share the ultimate objective of serving the human person and fostering human dignity. This partnership is essential in addressing the challenges facing the country.
On the prevailing political situation, Karlo urged religious leaders to approach national challenges with a balanced perspective, encouraging constructive criticism while also recognising positive developments. He cautioned that excessive focus on negative developments could contribute to national discouragement and political divisions. A balanced approach is necessary to promote national unity and stability.
The 52nd Plenary Assembly of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops' Conference provides a platform for Catholic bishops to discuss pressing issues affecting the two countries. The government hopes that the conference will lead to greater collaboration and understanding between Sudan and South Sudan, ultimately promoting peace, national unity, and reconciliation. The event is a significant step towards addressing the challenges facing the region.
Key points
- The Government of Eastern Equatoria State has urged Catholic bishops to promote peace, national unity, and reconciliation amid the political, security, and economic challenges facing Sudan and South Sudan.
