SOUTH SUDAN: “The Role of the Church is Paramount in the Upcoming Election,” Cardinal’s Christmas Message

Ginaba Lino

The Cardinal of South Sudan during his Christmas message on 20 December 2023, emphasized the role of the Church as they look forward to the next year’s general election.

His Eminence Stephen Cardinal Ameyu Martin Mulla stated that the role of the Church during the time leading to the General Elections in the Republic of South Sudan is paramount and encompasses multiple aspects.

“As we look forward to the next year 2024, the year South Sudanese will elect their political leaders, the role of the Church during the time leading to the General Elections in the Republic of South Sudan is paramount and encompasses multiple aspects.”

Cardinal Ameyu said the Church’s involvement in the election process aims to foster peace, justice, and accountability to ensure that the election is fair and transparent.

“The Church serves as a moral compass, a unifying force, and a platform for dialogue and reconciliation. Its involvement in the election process aims to foster peace, justice, and accountability, ensuring that the election is fair and transparent and reflective of the will of the people, not the few elites.”

The Catholic prelate added that the Church plays a crucial in providing moral guidance to both political leaders and the general population.

Stephen Ameyu narrated that the Church acts as a mediator and facilitator of dialogue to resolve differences and promote peaceful coexistence.

“Leading up to the election, the Church acts as a mediator and facilitators of dialogue and bring together political actors and communities to resolve differences and promote peaceful coexistence.”

Cardinal Mulla recognized the steps taken in the implementation of peace process in South Sudan, a lot it’s slow.

“We are ending this year with a hopeful note, with slow but significant strides made in the implementation of peace agreement. The establishment of the unified transitional government, the formation of reformed security sector, and the progress made in resolving the key outstanding issues are all testament to our collective commitment to peace.”

He urged the People of South Sudan to remain steadfast in their dedication to the peace process and continue to build trust.

“But our work is far from over, we must remain steadfast in our dedication to the peace process and continue to build trust, foster dialogue, and promote inclusivity.”

He believes that if people of South Sudan unite, they can overcome any challenge that may arise although the road to ahead may not always be smooth.

“The road to ahead may not always be smooth, but with unity and determination, I believe we can overcome any challenge that may arise.”

Cardinal appeals to the people of South Sudan to extend hands of friendship to their neighbors and vulnerable people during the Christmas festive.

“As we celebrate Christmas, let us not forget the true meaning of this season- love, forgiveness, and peace. Let us extend a hand of friendship to our neighbors, reach out to the vulnerable in our communities, and embrace diversity as a source of strength.”

His Eminence Stephen Cardinal Ameyu Martin reflected on the progresses made in South Sudan this year including the ecumenical visit of the Holy Father Pope Francis, the raising of the Nation and the Church to cardinal status, and the final implementation of the revitalized peace agreement.

He called on the people of South Sudan to cherish the progress they have made and let it inspire them as they look towards the future.

“May this Christmas be a time of reflection, gratitude and hope. Let us cherish the progress we have made and let it inspire us as we look towards the future.”

Together we can build a South Sudan where every citizens can prosper, where justice and equality prevail, and where peace regains supreme all parts of the Country, “He prayed.”