By Yiep Joseph
Cardinal Stephen Ameyu, the Archbishop of the Juba Metropolitan Catholic Archdiocese, has condemned the killings of South Sudanese in Madani, Al Jazira State, Sudan by reportedly the Sudan Armed Forces.
While addressing journalists on Friday, Cardinal Ameyu described the murder of South Sudanese as a heinous act deserving of the strongest condemnation.
Last week, disturbing videos circulated on social media showing the killings of South Sudanese in Wad Madani, the capital of Al Jazirah State.
These events have raised serious concerns about the safety of thousands of South Sudanese who are stranded in Sudan.
The incident has sparked protests in South Sudan, with many citizens demanding accountability from the Sudanese government and calling for justice.
In light of the fear that has gripped the region, many Sudanese have abandoned their shops and sought refuge in police and army barracks.
To prevent further violence, Bishop Ameyu urged South Sudanese to protect the Sudanese citizens, emphasizing that they, too, have fled from the same brutality.
“In light of these atrocities, we appeal to our beloved South Sudanese people to exercise restraint and compassion while the pain and anger stemming from these events are understandable,” he said.
“We implore you to refrain from seeking revenge against Sudanese refugees in our nation. Many of these individuals are fleeing the same tyrannical government that has perpetrated violence against us. They too are victims of a brutal system that shows no mercy,” he added.
The bishop expressed compassion with the families and vowed that the Church stand in solidarity with those who lost their loved ones.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, and we stand in solidarity with those who grieve this unbearable tragedy,” he said.
Ameyu expressed that the call of the church is grounded in the principles of love, forgiveness, and understanding that Christ teaches.
“Let us extend our hands in solidarity to those who sought shelter among us, recognizing their plight as part of our shared human experience,” he said.
The bishop called on South Sudanese to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation and to ensure healing and unity.
“We are proud of the spirit of unity and resilience that characterizes our South Sudanese communities. We must work towards healing and rebuilding, fostering an environment where every individual can feel safe and valued, regardless of their religion,” he expressed.
In a statement, President Salva Kiir called for calm among citizens and urged the Sudanese government and conflicting parties to take responsibility for protecting civilians trapped in war zones.
Kiir’s statement comes as many South Sudanese protest the killings of their fellow citizens by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in Madani, Al Gezira State, Sudan.
He urged citizens to remain calm, emphasizing that no one should take the law into their own hands while both governments work to address the situation.
“I, therefore, urged all South Sudanese citizens to remain calm and refrain from retaliation. It is crucial that we do not allow anger and emotions to cloud our judgment and turn against Sudanese brothers and sisters,” Kiir said.
“Let us protect their properties and businesses. We are hospitable people; it’s our duty to offer protection and support to Sudanese refugees who fled the war in Sudan. Let them find comfort around you,” he added.
He called for protection of civilians by the parties in conflict in Sudan.
“The government of Sudan is obliged to protect South Sudanese citizens trapped in war zones under its control,” he said.
Following the recapture of Madani from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) last weekend, videos surfaced on social media showing elements of the SAF and their allied militia torturing, slaughtering, beheading, and, in some instances, shooting South Sudanese and other foreigners. The images have gone viral, provoking widespread anger and condemnation.