Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla has urged political leaders in South Sudan and Sudan to prioritise the interests of citizens over political ambitions, saying compromise and dialogue are essential to addressing the challenges facing the two countries.
Speaking on Sunday at the opening of the 52nd Annual Plenary Assembly of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference in Torit, the cardinal said both countries face serious political, security and humanitarian challenges that require collective responsibility.
He identified the lack of political compromise as a major obstacle to resolving the crises, urging leaders to put the common good above personal and political interests.
“Compromise does not mean that you are a coward. It means that you give up your own position because of the common good,” Ameyu said.
He warned against continued reliance on armed conflict, saying it would only increase suffering among civilians.
“War cannot produce anything. It produces only death, hatred and destruction,” he said.
South Sudan elections
Ameyu also addressed South Sudan’s preparations for the December elections, urging voters to elect leaders capable of addressing their basic needs.
“Vote for your leaders who will bring to you all the necessary basic things in life,” he told the congregation.
He cautioned politicians against allowing electoral competition to result in violence, saying peaceful political engagement was in the interests of all citizens.
“No one will benefit from violence. Let us embrace the wisdom of God,” he said.
The cardinal also spoke about servant leadership, saying religious leaders had a responsibility to serve the people rather than dominate them.
Church calls for solidary
Ameyu expressed concern about the effects of drought on agricultural production and livelihoods in South Sudan, saying crop losses in several parts of the country had added to the difficulties facing vulnerable communities.
He urged Christians to maintain their faith and support one another during difficult times, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility.
“We will not be saved as individuals. We will be saved as a community of people living together in solidarity,” he said.
He called on communities to share available resources and avoid selfishness, saying solidarity and compassion were important in addressing the country’s challenges.
Meanwhile, Andrew Karlo Akwo, representing the Eastern Equatoria State Government, described the assembly as an important gathering for the Catholic Church in Sudan and South Sudan.
Akwo commended the Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, vocational training, social welfare, poverty alleviation and humanitarian assistance.
He said Church-run institutions, including schools, hospitals, clinics and rural dispensaries, complemented government efforts to provide essential services.
“We recognise the Church as the conscience of society,” Akwo said.
He described the government and the Church as partners in promoting peace, stability and human dignity.
“The government and the Church are mutual pillars supporting the stability of the nation,” he said.
Akwo urged the bishops to continue addressing national challenges and promoting reconciliation, unity and peaceful coexistence.
He also called for closer cooperation between the government and the Church in tackling poverty, economic recovery, climate change, environmental protection, migration and insecurity.
Bishops meet in Torit
The 52nd Annual Plenary Assembly brings together Catholic bishops from Sudan and South Sudan, clergy and representatives of Church institutions to discuss pastoral priorities, institutional matters and the Church’s role in peace and development.
The gathering comes as both countries face continuing political, security and humanitarian challenges.
The assembly provides a forum for Church leaders to discuss peace, reconciliation and their role in supporting communities in Sudan and South Sudan.
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