Pope urges South Sudanese to shun tribalism, ethnic differences

JUBA, FEBRUARY 3rd 2023 (SUDANS POST) — Pope Francis has urged citizens of South Sudan to shun hatred, tribalism, regionalism, and ethnic differences saying it breeds disunity and conflict in the country.

The 86-year-old pontiff made this call during a joint press conference with President Salva Kiir Mayardit at the Presidential Palace on Friday.

“May it be for everyone an occasion to revive hope, let each citizen understand that time has come to stop being carried along by tainted waters of hatred, tribalism, regionalism, and ethnic difference,” said Pope.

Pope urged the citizens to turn to close an old chapter and open a new page to move the country to lasting peace and stability.

“Dear friends, it is time to move away from words to deeds. It is time to turn a new page, it is time for commitment to an urgent and much-needed transformation,” he said.

Pontiff called for peace and reconciliation to prevail in South Sudan.

“The process of peace and reconciliation requires a new start. May an understanding be reached and progress is made in moving forward with a peace accord and the new roadmap.”

He said their coming is to offer an opportunity for South Sudan to resume sailing in calm waters, and to take up dialogue without duplicity and opportunism.

“In a world scarred by divisions and conflict, this county is hosting an ecumenical pilgrimage of peace which is something rare, it represents a change of direction, an opportunity for South Sudan to resume sailing in calm waters, taking up dialogue without duplicity and opportunism.”

Rev. Dr. Iain Greenshilds, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland said their visit will bring hope and healing to the people of South Sudan.

“I pray that this visit will be one of hope and healing, spent together as a family of Christ and following God who brings us closer to one another and takes in,” said Greenshilds.

Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby urged South Sudan political leaders to work for peace and reconciliation.

“May all political, civil, and international leaders join together in seeking God’s promise of life and fullness for all of God’s people.”