Amidst numerous violations of the ceasefire in South Sudan, including politicians’ actions that pose a threat to the recently signed peace agreement, church leaders in Juba reminded the government and rebels to respect the pact.
The church leaders expressed two main concerns: ceasefire violations and hardliners’ opposition to the peace agreement.
Over 50 violations of the ceasefire have been reported. As well, observers of the conflict have noted that a recent decree by the president to increase the number of states in South Sudan from ten to 28 violates the terms of the agreement signed in August.
The church leaders also urged political actors in South Sudan to seek forgiveness from each other in order to realize peace.