SOUTH SUDAN: Power Struggles in Sudan, South Sudan Undermine Human Dignity, Bishops Decry
Ginaba Lino
The Catholic Bishops of Sudan and South Sudan have issued a strong pastoral message condemning the ongoing political power struggles in both countries, warning that rivalries within governments and opposition groups “lack respect for human dignity” and continue to fuel suffering, division, and humanitarian catastrophe.
In a statement delivered during the 51st Annual Plenary Assembly held in Malakal from 7–14 November 2025, the Bishops said the worsening crises in the two nations have been aggravated by leaders who have prioritized personal interests over the common good. Gathered under the theme “Building Peace, Healing Wounds, and Strengthening Unity,” the Bishops expressed deep concern over what they described as dishonored peace agreements, escalating violence, and widespread ethnic manipulation for political gain.
“Peace is not merely the absence of war but the work of justice,” the Bishops said, echoing the words of Pope Paul VI. “The ongoing power struggle within our governments and opposition groups in Sudan and South Sudan is harmful, maliciously selfish, and shows little regard for the dignity of the human person.”
The message criticized leaders who exploit national resources for personal benefit while ordinary citizens endure extreme poverty, hunger, and displacement. The Bishops warned that such misappropriation of wealth has entrenched cliques of political supporters and widened social inequality.
“Our land is full of abundance, yet resources are misappropriated for luxury by a few,” the statement noted. “This attitude must change so that good governance takes root. To lead is to serve power without service is a loss of direction.”
The Bishops said injustice remains a seed of future conflict and urged political actors to prioritize the common good above personal or ethnic interests.
The Bishops expressed alarm over what they described as politically engineered ethnic and tribal divisions, calling them a betrayal of the founding visions of both countries.
“A nation born out of struggle and freedom cannot endure if the vision that once united its people is abandoned,” they said. “Unity in diversity has always been our strength. Short-sighted, divisive politics must not corrupt these rich cultural and ethnic identities.”
Citing Scripture, the Bishops warned, “If a house is divided against itself, that household can never stand.”
The Bishops also criticized the forced repatriation of vulnerable South Sudanese from Sudan, saying the practice threatens families and exposes women and children to further hardship. They urged both governments to find a just and humane solution.
On disarmament operations in South Sudan, the Bishops insisted that the process must be conducted with utmost respect for human dignity, condemning indiscriminate attacks on civilians. They called for full implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and urged Sudan’s warring parties to honour the Jeddah Declaration.
The Catholic leaders voiced concern over the recent downsizing of the UN Mission in South Sudan, adding that the closure of several field stations would have “serious implications” for vulnerable communities who depend on protection and humanitarian assistance. They appealed to UN member states to maintain their support during this critical period.
The Bishops highlighted the devastating floods affecting both countries, describing them as “equally destructive as civil wars.” They cited submerged villages, destroyed farms, damaged schools and health facilities, and rising threats along riverbanks witnessed firsthand during their journey through Malakal and surrounding areas. They called for greater attention to the causes, impacts, and long-term solutions to recurring floods.
Despite the grim realities, the Bishops reaffirmed their commitment to stand with the people of Sudan and South Sudan and to advocate for peace, reconciliation, and healing at both political and grassroots levels. They urged citizens to pray for leaders to embrace sincere dialogue, and announced the pre-launch of Small Christian Communities as part of the Church’s synodal pastoral renewal.
“To the people of Sudan and South Sudan, we assure you that we share your pain and suffering,” they said. “We hold firmly to the promise of Christ: ‘Peace I leave you, my peace I give you.’”
The Bishops encouraged every parish, family, and religious community to dedicate daily moments of prayer and fasting for peace, urging Christians to forgive one another and remain united. They entrusted the nations to Mary, Queen of Peace, and Saint Joseph, praying that the Holy Spirit renew the region with justice, compassion, and lasting peace.
