![Bishops of the Central Equatoria Province of the Episcopal Church [Photo via Facebook]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/116789358_3542123832479203_4251558720535714219_o.jpg?resize=960%2C501&ssl=1)
In a pastoral message following a two-day meeting in Juba, the bishops stressed that elections are “a whole process spread over time,” requiring an independent electoral commission, voter and party registration, and security measures.
“Virtually none of this has taken place,” the bishops said, citing concerns about insecurity, floods, and incomplete implementation of the 2018 peace agreement.
“Most of these (peace agreement elements) have not been fulfilled, so it is difficult to see how the final element (elections) can be legitimately implemented without implementing all others,” the statement said.
Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro of Tambura-Yambio Diocese, however, emphasized the Church’s commitment to assisting with the elections.
“The Catholic Church is engaging in voter education, citizen awareness, and all that it would take for people for fair and free elections, avoiding violence,” Bishop Hiiboro said.
The bishops also highlighted the ongoing Nairobi Peace Talks as a potential path forward, urging leaders to “take these negotiations seriously” and avoid inflammatory rhetoric.
“Whatever happens, they should remain in dialogue and refrain from words and actions which might contribute to violence,” the statement said.
While acknowledging the peace agreement’s role in reducing large-scale conflict, the bishops called attention to unresolved issues like lack of a constitutional government, corruption, and land disputes.
They emphasized the need for a broader national dialogue “independent of political and military elites,” encompassing faith communities, civil society, and various community groups.
This dialogue, the bishops argued, should focus on building a “South Sudan we want” that transcends power struggles and addresses the root causes of conflict.
