South Sudanese clerics slam Killings of Civilians in Wad Medani

The South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC) has strongly condemned the killings of South Sudanese and other African nationals in Wad Medani, Sudan, on January 16, 2025.
The General Overseer of the Sudan Pentecostal Church, Bishop James Lado speaking to media in Juba (Photo by Jenifer James)

By Jenifer James

The South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC) has strongly condemned the killings of South Sudanese and other African nationals in Wad Medani, Sudan, on January 16, 2025.

Speaking on behalf of the SSCC, the General Overseer of the Sudan Pentecostal Church, Bishop James Lado Emiliano, on Tuesday described the actions of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) as “unjustifiable” and denounced the deliberate targeting of innocent civilians, including the bombing of churches.

Emiliano expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of those killed in the violence, stressing that the attacks violated the rights of civilians and places of worship.

 He placed full responsibility for the actions on the Sudanese government, holding its forces accountable for the atrocities.

“We regret the tragic loss of life and call for immediate justice for those responsible for these heinous crimes,” said Emiliano.

 He also urged the international community and the South Sudanese government to take swift action to protect civilians and ensure that such acts of violence do not go unpunished.

Since the onset of the conflict in Sudan in April 2023, Bishop Lado Emiliano highlighted the ongoing humanitarian efforts by churches in South Sudan, which have provided aid to refugees from Sudan, irrespective of their ethnic or religious backgrounds.

He reaffirmed the SSCC’s commitment to supporting Sudanese refugees, returnees, and affected South Sudanese communities, addressing their needs amidst the growing crisis.

Bishop Emiliano also called on South Sudanese citizens to remain calm and avoid resorting to violence, urging them to embrace peace and coexistence with their neighbours.

 He also sent condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attacks and prayed for the souls of the victims.

The Bishop’s statement comes amid heightened concerns about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, with the violence contributing to mass displacement, economic hardship, and public health emergencies.

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