By Yiep Joseph
Several stakeholders have called upon South Sudanese leaders to remember Pope Francis’s message of peace by implementing the pending tasks outlined in the peace agreement.
On Monday, the Vatican announced his passing at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, declared the Pope’s death from the Casa Santa Marta.
The Holy Father’s death occurs at a time when the 2018 peace agreement continues to face significant challenges, including armed confrontations between signatories and the detention of opposition leaders, such as First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar.
According to a statement released to the media, Ter Manyang, the Executive Director for the Centre for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), stated that Pope Francis should be remembered for his contributions to peace in South Sudan.
“Pope Francis should be remembered by the ordinary people and political elites of South Sudan as a key contributor to peace, justice, human rights, and security in the country,” Ter said.
He added, “when he visited South Sudan, he came with a genuine intention to encourage political leaders to promote justice, peace, and reconciliation among the divided nation.”
Ter urged the leaders to remember Pope’s plea for peace by bringing stability to the country through adherence to the 2018 peace agreement.
“The image of Pope Francis kissing the feet of South Sudanese political leaders in 2019 serves as a powerful reminder that lasting peace and security must be prioritized in South Sudan,” he emphasized.
“Our leaders should reflect on the messages delivered by Pope Francis in Juba and in Rome,” he expressed.
The activist further stated that the people of South Sudan remain in dire need of peace as ongoing violence continues to inflict suffering.
“The people of South Sudan are in desperate need of peace from their political leaders right now,” he said.
He reiterated the Center for Peace and Advocacy’s (CPA) commitment to promoting tolerance and a culture of peace in South Sudan.
On his part, Daniel Amour, a Catholic priest, called on the leaders to mourn Pope Francis with a renewed commitment to the current peace agreement.
“As the Catholic family mourns Pope Francis across the world, our leaders should double their commitment. This can only be demonstrated through the serious implementation of the agreement,” Amour stated.
He also called on faith-based leaders to embark on the unity of believers, adding that Pope Francis’s death should serve as a symbol of unity and peace, consistent with his long-standing teachings.
As the world mourns, the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba issued a solemn announcement regarding the Pope’s death.
The Office of the Cardinal, Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, affirmed that the late Pope Francis dedicated his life to serving God and humanity.
“It is with deep sorrow that I announce the passing of our Holy Father Pope Francis, who passed away this morning. The Pope passed away at 7:35 A.M. in Vatican City,” the statement read in part.
The Cardinal expressed that Pope Francis made significant contributions to the Church and the world.
“He (Pope) championed the cause of the marginalized, advocated for justice and reconciliation, and inspired millions with his message of love and mercy,” the statement read.
“Let us join together in prayer, offering our condolences and seeking solace in our shared faith during this time of mourning. May the soul of the Pope rest in eternal peace,” he added.
Meanwhile, following the announcement of Pope Francis’s death, various leaders took to social media to express their condolences.
President Salva Kiir also conveyed profound sorrow following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at 7:35 AM on Monday in his apartment at Domus Santa Marta, Vatican City.
In a statement obtained by this outlet, Kiir hailed the late Pontiff as a “beacon of hope, compassion, and unity,” whose tireless efforts to foster peace in South Sudan left an enduring legacy.