Pope Francis will be remembered in South Sudan for his profound love and concern for this young nation.
Despite suffering from knee problems, he visited South Sudan on February 3rd, 2023, following a visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo on February 1st, 2023. His visit underscored his commitment to supporting the implementation of the peace agreement in South Sudan.
In April 2019, President Salva Kiir and his deputy, Dr. Riek Machar, traveled to Rome, landing in Vatican City.
During an unprecedented retreat at the Vatican, Pope Francis, in a dramatic gesture, knelt and kissed the feet of South Sudan’s previously warring leaders, imploring them to avoid a return to civil war.
That moment remains unforgettable—a moment that profoundly impacted the moral conscience of our nation.
Pope Francis, a globally revered figure, humbled himself to kiss the feet of South Sudanese political leaders. This was not a mere diplomatic gesture but a tearful plea for peace. His act was both symbolic and deeply moving, an embodiment of humility and a desperate appeal to end the devastating war.
Unfortunately, that moment, rich in meaning and moral power, was squandered. Some leaders failed to recognize its significance. They turned their backs not only on the Pope’s plea but also on an opportunity for reconciliation.
They ignored the suffering of widows, refugees, and the hopes of an entire generation. This was not just a political failure but a betrayal of our shared humanity.
Pope Francis believed that peace in South Sudan was a moral imperative for the world. He stood with the poor, the displaced, and the voiceless, advocating for justice and dialogue over vengeance and domination. His passing leaves a moral void at a time when our people and leaders desperately need moral clarity.
The Pope’s actions aimed to encourage the President, his deputy, and the other Vice Presidents to honor the armistice they signed, commit to forming a unity government, and bring lasting peace to South Sudan. He sought to unite these brothers and urge them to overcome their grievances.
Imagine Pope Francis, then 82 years old, enduring chronic leg pain and requiring assistance to kneel and kiss the shoes of the two main opposing leaders and others present. This was all done to alleviate the suffering of the South Sudanese people, whose war had dragged on for too long. However, the advice given in Rome was disregarded, and the parties have since pursued their own agendas.
Since the 2018 peace agreement, lasting peace has remained elusive, except perhaps in the capital, Juba. Crisis persists, hope for peace dwindles, leaders shift from peace to war, and mutual blame continues. Who is to blame: the government or the opposition?
There is still time for political leaders to resolve their disputes. With Pope Francis no longer able to directly intervene, the principal parties must implement the 2018 peace agreement, heeding his advice to move the country forward. Politicians should learn from other nations that have emerged from conflict. They must not return South Sudan to war, allowing refugees to return home.
I appeal to the signatories of the 2018 peace agreement to unite and steadfastly implement the peace, bringing lasting tranquility to the country.
Pope Francis, may your greatest soul rest in peace
God protect South Sudan
Be spectator!