South Sudanese clerics condemn Al Jazira killings, urge restraint

JUBA – Senior clerics of the South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC) have strongly condemned the killings of South Sudanese and other African nationals in Wad Madani, Sudan, by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).

Speaking during a press conference yesterday in Juba, Bishop James Lagos Alexander of the Sudan Pentecostal Church said the killings, which he holds the SAF responsible for, was at no reason justifiable.

“We, the leaders of the South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC) and the faithful of South Sudan with heavy hearts have learned of the unfortunate killings of South Sudanese and other Africa nationals at Wad Madani, Sudan on January 16, 2025,” he said on behalf of the men of God.

“The mass atrocities and killings of helpless innocent people conducted systematically by Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) is unjustifiable,” he added.

The clerics condemned the targeting of churches and places of worship by both factions in the conflict, calling it a violation of religious rights.

“Whatsoever the case the Sudanese Government bears full responsibility over their forces,” the statement said.

Despite the tragic events, the clerics called for unity and solidarity among Christians in Sudan.

“We appeal to the Churches in Sudan to come together for Christian fellowship, solidarity and unity to stand firm in the midst of a hostile state in Sudan,” the statement said.

The SSCC highlighted the support provided by South Sudanese churches to refugees fleeing the conflict in Sudan.

“Since the conflict began in Sudan in April 2023, the Churches in South Sudan have been supporting the refugees with necessary humanitarian assistance irrespective of their ethnic and religious backgrounds,” Alexander said.

The SSCC called upon the Government of South Sudan, the Regional and International Community to hold the Government of Sudan accountable for the atrocities committed in Wad Madani.

“Furthermore, we appeal to the Government of South Sudan to take its responsibility in ensuring the safety of its citizens in Sudan and elsewhere including safe return to the country,” the statement said.

However, the clerics warned against retaliation.

“To the citizens of South Sudan, we urge you to remain calm, refrain from the temptation of engaging in violence and abide by the culture of peace and coexistence with all your neighbors Jesus taught,” the statement said, quoting Matthew 5:44: “But I say, love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you.”

The men of God extended their condolences to the families of those killed.

On Thursday night, violent demonstrations erupted in parts of South Sudan as protestors expressed their anger over the killings in Wad Madani.

Heavy gunfire could be heard in several parts of Juba, Aweil, Bor, and other states as police tried to disperse protestors.

Reports indicated looting and vandalism of businesses perceived to belong to Sudanese traders, as well as loss of life.