![South Sudan’s new Catholic Church Cardinal His Eminence Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla speaks to journalists at Juba International Airport upon his return from Rome, Italy, on October 30, 2023. [Photo by Sudans Post]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/IMG_6142.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&ssl=1)
Speaking to reporters in Juba, Cardinal Ameyu, who also serves as the metropolitan Archbishop of Juba Dioceses, emphasized the crucial role of trust, dialogue, and inclusivity in solidifying peace.
“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 said.
“The road ahead may not always be smooth, but with unity and determination, I believe we can overcome any challenges that may arise,” he added.
Cardinal Ameyu acknowledged the slow but positive progress in implementing key provisions of the 2018 peace agreement, expressing cautious optimism:
“We are ending this year on a hopeful note, with slow but significant strides made in the implementation of the peace agreement,” he said.
“The establishment of a unified transitional government, the formation of a reformed security sector, and progress made in resolving key outstanding issues are all testaments to our collective commitment to peace,” he added.
He further hailed the peace deal as a crucial platform for reconciliation and healing, stating:
“The peace deal has provided a platform for dialogue, reconciliation, and healing, enabling the country to address the root causes of our division and work towards sustainability,” he said.
“All these signs and the revitalized peace agreement holding have brought hope and optimism to our people, who have long endured the devastating effects of conflict and hardship,” he added.
Despite cautious optimism, the story acknowledges the remaining challenges, noting.
“There are only 11 months remaining; the pace of overall implementation of the Revitalized Peace Agreement towards the December 2024 elections has been uneven,” Cardinal Ameyu said.
“The transitional security arrangements are significantly behind schedule, and the permanent constitution-making process is now 15 months behind the timeline set out in the road map and the peace agreement,” he concluded.
