The primate of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECSS), Justin Badi Arama, on Friday denied reports that he was beaten by residents during a violent clash over a long-standing land dispute in Juba’s Munuki neighborhood.
Clashes erupted Thursday between church members and local residents after tensions flared over contested land. Photos shared on social media falsely claimed to show Primate Arama being assaulted, which he firmly rejected.
“Nobody was beaten, but stones were thrown at a few priests and laity,” Arama said. “Police contained the situation before we arrived. The photo of me sitting down was during prayers and fasting for this crisis—it is untrue that I was beaten.”
Speaking to the media, Archbishop Arama said the church had declared a month of prayers, beginning with three days of fasting at the site.
“Yesterday evening, the Central Equatoria State government apologized and assured us they would suspend all activities on the land,” Arama said. “We await the relocation of those allotted plots on church property and urge respect for sacred and public spaces.”
The primate said St. Stephen Parish in Munuki has operated for more than 60 years, with an official land title issued in 1987. He said the conflict began this year when the state Housing Ministry demarcated the area—including church property—and allocated plots to individuals.
“During demarcation, the priest’s residence, church stores, toilets and offices at St. Stephen and St. Thomas were demolished,” Arama said.
He said church leaders sought intervention from the state governor, who initially promised to halt the allocations but failed to act.
When clergy and worshippers later visited the site to pray, Arama said, youths allegedly incited by plot recipients threw stones at them.