Bishop Alex Loading Soka of Yet Diocese has voiced deep concern over the continued fighting between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and armed groups in several parts of Central Equatoria and South Sudan.
Bishop Soka appealed to all parties in the conflict to abandon violence and embrace dialogue. “War is not the solution,” he stated. “It is time for all sides to come to the table and talk peace in South Sudan. The sooner we do that, the better prolonging the war only deepens the suffering.”
the Bishop recounted a violent encounter that took place last week, forcing many civilians to flee their homes. Some sought refuge in local churches after their properties were looted.
“Thank God no civilians were killed during that particular incident,” Bishop Soka said. “But I urge soldiers not to vent their anger on innocent people. Whether the confrontation is justified or not, those who are armed must understand that they cause pain to the innocent.”
The Bishop also shared the heartbreaking story of a family that became separated from their three children during the chaos. The children fled in a different direction, and the family has since been unable to locate them.
“The mother searched everywhere but couldn’t find them,” he said. “Imagine—if we as adults fear being in the bush, including the soldiers, what will happen to young children?”
