South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tambura-Yambio, Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, has called on the people of South Sudan to reject violence and promote peace, compassion, and national unity.
Speaking at the 1st Annual Diocesan Audience held at the Bishop’s residence in Curia, he addressed the escalating crisis affecting communities across the country.
“Our innocent people are suffering for no reason,” Bishop Hiiboro declared, his voice reflecting the anguish felt throughout South Sudan.
“Let’s ask ourselves: for how long are we going to suffer like this? For how long will we continue to endure suffering in our own nation?”
He condemned the rise in criminality and violence, particularly among the youth and armed groups, highlighting regions from Nzara to Malakal, Wau to Torit, Yambio to Renk, Bor to Yei, Rumbek to Nemule, and Tombura to Pibor as hotspots of unrest.
“Why are we consuming our nation?” he lamented, expressing concern over the addiction to violence and the failure of institutions to intervene.
Addressing gangs in Juba and armed groups nationwide, Bishop Hiiboro urged them to stop killing their fellow citizens.
“You are killing the image of God for nothing,” he stated. “The most affected are women, children, girls, and the elderly. Killing is not the solution to our problems.”
He emphasised that peace cannot be imposed by governments or churches alone but must be a collective effort. “It’s not just family members, the government, or churches who must stop this. All of us must think wisely and end the violence so we can achieve lasting peace.”
The Bishop posed a powerful question to every county, Payam, Boma, and village: “Who is responsible for the situation we are facing? What is your answer?”
Rather than casting blame, he called for introspection and shared responsibility. “Let’s stop blaming each other. We must unite with one voice, with compassion and solidarity.”
Despite the challenges, Bishop Hiiboro expressed hope for South Sudan’s future. “We have a long way to go and much to do for our nation and its people. Let us pave the way for development and opportunity.”
During the Bishop’s message, priests, sisters, directors, deacons, seminarians, and staff from the Catholic Diocese of Tambura-Yambio gathered alongside online participants from various departments for the Diocesan 1st Annual Audience.
His message was not only a spiritual reflection but also a rallying cry for peace, unity, and action. In a country yearning for healing, Bishop Hiiboro’s words serve as a moral compass, urging all South Sudanese to choose life over death, unity over division, and hope over despair.
