Author: Obaj Okuj | Published: 4 hours ago
The Vatican’s envoy to South Sudan has called for renewed efforts to de-escalate violence and promote peace across the country, warning that sustainable development cannot be achieved without stability.
Archbishop Seamus Patrick Horgan made the remarks after meeting with Vice President Dr. James Wani Igga in Juba on Wednesday, where the two leaders discussed South Sudan’s security situation and preparations for the December 2026 general elections.
Speaking to the state-owned broadcaster SSBC, Archbishop Horgan said the Holy See remains deeply concerned about ongoing violence in parts of the country and urged leaders at all levels to take active steps to promote peace and national unity.
“We spoke about the Holy See’s concern for peace in South Sudan,” Horgan said. “That peace, of course, needs to be prepared for by a de-escalation, particularly of all the unfortunate violent conflicts that are still happening around the country.”
He said the Holy See hopes that the Catholic community in South Sudan will continue to advocate for peace and encourage leaders to create conditions that allow stability and development to flourish.
“We spoke of the Holy See’s hope that the Catholics of this country would give voice to that wish for peace, and that those in positions of authority would promote peace and a de-escalation of the current situation so that peace can flourish, and on top of peace, development,” he added.
According to Archbishop Horgan, Vice President Igga assured him of the government’s commitment to peace and his personal determination to support efforts aimed at reducing tensions nationwide.
“The Vice President assured me of his heartfelt wish to see movement toward peace and de-escalation, and he assured me that, as a voice, he would speak in that way,” Horgan said.
In his remarks, Vice President Dr. James Wani Igga reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining peace across South Sudan, despite what he described as isolated insecurity-related incidents in some areas of the country.
He said the incidents have been contained and emphasized that the government remains focused on ensuring stability as the country prepares for the upcoming general elections.
