YAMBIO – The Bishop of the Catholic Church Tombura-Yambio Diocese in South Sudan’s Western Equatoria, Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, has renewed calls for truth and justice as the state marks the second anniversary of the disappearance of Rev. Fr. Luke Yugue and his driver, Michael Gbeko.
Fr. Yugue and Gbeko were reportedly abducted by unknown assailants on April 27, 2024, while travelling along the Nagero–Tambura road. Their whereabouts remain unknown, leaving their families, the Church, and the wider community in prolonged anguish.
In a pastoral message released on Monday, Bishop Hiiboro described the disappearance as “a national wound” and urged authorities to take decisive action.
“Two years have passed, yet the questions remain unanswered. The pain has not faded, and the longing for truth continues,” he said.
The bishop stressed that the case is not only a private tragedy but also a matter of national concern, calling on government institutions at all levels to fulfil their responsibilities.
“Authority is not only power; it is responsibility before God and before history. We need truth, not silence. We need accountability, not uncertainty,” he added.
Bishop Hiiboro paid tribute to Fr. Yugue as a devoted servant of the Gospel who worked tirelessly for peace, reconciliation, and hope. He said Michael Gbeko faithfully supported that mission.
He also highlighted the broader issue of enforced disappearances in South Sudan, saying many families continue to suffer in silence without answers about their missing loved ones.
“We remember not only Fr. Luke and Michael, but all those across our nation who have disappeared. Their loss is a moral test for our society,” he said.
The bishop appealed to the international community to remain in solidarity and to support efforts to uncover the truth.
He announced that the Diocese will hold annual Holy Masses every April 27 in remembrance of the two missing men and all others who have disappeared, with prayers dedicated to justice, peace, and national healing.
“To the families, we say: you are not alone. The Church walks with you. Your pain remains in our prayers, and your hope in our hearts,” he said.
The bishop concluded with a message of faith and perseverance, insisting that truth and justice would ultimately prevail.
“Silence will not prevail. Truth will not be buried. Justice will not be denied forever,” he said.
