Church leaders in Eastern Equatoria state petitioned South Sudan’s government on Sunday, urging national and state leaders to prioritize forgiveness, dialogue and justice to achieve lasting peace.
The appeal comes as the criminal trial of suspended First Vice President Riek Machar and seven others began in Juba. They face charges including treason and crimes against humanity for their alleged roles in violence in the town of Nasir in March.
Machar is a key figure in a 2018 peace agreement that ended a five-year civil war.
Bishop Zachariah Eriga of the African Inland Church read the petition during a prayer visit to the palace of Governor Louis Lobong Lojore. The bishop appealed to the government and signatories of the revitalized peace agreement to embrace dialogue over the use of force.
“We are hereby calling to all parties … to embrace dialogue, forgiveness and reconciliation to end the suffering of our people,” the petition stated, noting the return of refugees from neighboring countries like Kenya and Uganda.
The leaders implored officials to protect human rights, uphold justice and act with integrity. They also called on armed groups to lay down their weapons.
“No lasting peace can be built on fear and bloodshed,” the petition read. “Seek reconciliation, not revenge. Justice must be sought through lawful and nonviolent means.”
Governor Lobong expressed gratitude for the church leaders’ support and called security a collective responsibility.
“Security is a joint responsibility, it is no one man’s responsibility,” Lobong said. “I am appealing, let us provide security to ourselves, let us create a conducive environment for ourselves.”
The petition follows a rise in insecurity in the state, including recent attacks and ambushes along the road between Torit and Magwi.
Pastor Josephine Night of Faith Ministry Church prayed for divine guidance for the country’s leaders.
“We pray that you give them your spirit, you guide them and direct them,” she said. “Give them wisdom that they may guide your people in the right way.”