South Sudan bishops urge peace, reforms and aid, warning of economic hardship, insecurity and electoral uncertainty before December vote.
Newsroom (21/07/2026 Gaudium Press ) At the conclusion of their annual assembly held from July 15 to 17, 2026, the Catholic bishops of South Sudan issued a strong appeal for urgent action to address the country’s escalating economic, political, and security challenges as it approaches a critical electoral period.
In a statement released by Sr. Laurencila Akinyi of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Anne (FSSA), the bishops highlighted a series of interconnected crises affecting the nation, including severe economic deterioration, persistent violence, growing humanitarian needs, and uncertainty surrounding the country’s planned democratic elections.
Deepening Economic Hardships
The bishops expressed particular concern over South Sudan’s worsening economic situation, citing the sharp depreciation of the national currency and the rapidly increasing cost of goods and services. These developments, they warned, are placing immense pressure on ordinary citizens already struggling to meet basic needs.
The country’s economic woes come at a time when many families face significant financial insecurity, making the rising prices of everyday commodities an increasingly urgent concern. The bishops emphasized the need for national leaders to address these challenges while safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable populations.
Security Concerns and Regional Tensions
Beyond economic pressures, the church leaders drew attention to continuing violence involving armed groups and security forces. They warned that ongoing insecurity threatens social stability and undermines efforts to build lasting peace.
The bishops also voiced concern over the presence and encroachment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces along South Sudan’s southern borders, describing the situation as another factor contributing to national unease and instability.
Their message underscored the importance of maintaining peace and security as the country prepares for a major political transition.
Call for Peace Ahead of Elections
With democratic elections scheduled for December 22, 2026, the bishops urged political leaders, state institutions, and citizens to place peace, dialogue, and constitutional order above partisan interests.
While reaffirming the importance of a credible democratic process, they raised concerns about the election date itself, noting that it coincides with the Christmas season. The bishops cautioned that a “looming transitional and constitutional crisis” exists regardless of whether the elections proceed as planned, highlighting the complex political challenges facing the country.
Their statement called for careful consideration of the national interest and emphasized the need for decisions rooted in dialogue and consensus rather than confrontation.
Humanitarian Crisis Intensified by Flooding
The bishops also appealed to the international community and humanitarian organizations to increase assistance for communities facing severe food insecurity.
Recurrent flooding continues to affect large areas of South Sudan, destroying crops and weakening the livelihoods of thousands of families. The resulting disruption to agricultural production has intensified humanitarian pressures and left many communities increasingly dependent on external support.
According to the bishops, stronger international engagement is essential to help affected populations recover and to prevent further deterioration of living conditions.
Renewed Commitment to the Peace Agreement
Central to the bishops’ message was a renewed call for the full implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement. They stressed that the agreement must be carried out in good faith and remain the foundation for efforts to achieve sustainable peace and political stability.
The church leaders argued that decisions regarding the electoral process should be guided by mutual trust, constitutional order, dialogue, and a commitment to the common good. Such principles, they said, are essential for ensuring a peaceful and legitimate path forward for the nation.
Appeal for Unity
Concluding their statement, the bishops appealed directly to the people of South Sudan to reject violence, hatred, tribalism, and misinformation. Emphasizing the shared future of all citizens, they called for unity and collective responsibility in overcoming the country’s challenges.
Their message reflected both concern and hope, urging South Sudanese leaders and citizens alike to work together to secure peace, stability, and democratic progress during a pivotal moment in the nation’s history.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Fides News
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