South Sudan church leaders fear violence after government dissolution
The atmosphere in South Sudan this past week is tense after President Salva Kiir dissolved the government and dismissed vice–president, Riek Machar, from his post. The President then deployed heavily armed security forces to guard key government institutions in the capital, Juba.
The National Police Service say the country’s security situation is under control, and are calling upon citizens to distance themselves from politics and continue with their usual routine. However, Open Doors contacts are concerned that the situation will deteriorate and have asked us to pray for peace and stability.
Over the summer, the border district of Abyei has seen rising tensions and increasing levels of violence. In recent months, the village of Tajalei has been demolished, two drive–by shootings have taken place and several attacks planned by Misseriya militia on local villages have been thwarted.
The government of Sudan has been accused of arming the militia in order to destabilise the area, and scattering local people in order to prevent them from voting in a referendum to decide the future of the region.
These latest incidents offer a stark reminder of the May 2011 attacks by Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) in Abyei, which displaced at least 80,000 people. At that time, the community of believers in Abyei gave invaluable support to those in need, opening their homes for the displaced and giving them practical assistance and spiritual care. Now, following the most recent attacks, the church is again rising to the occasion. Church leaders are travelling to some of the most dangerous areas to assess the need and give support with building materials and survival kits.
Source: Open Doors, Sudan Tribune
The Diocese of Down and Dromore is linked with Maridi Diocese in South Sudan, under the leadership of Bishop Justin Badi Arama. Although not geographically close to the areas mentioned above, please remember Maridi Diocese in your prayers
Please pray also:
For the protection of Christians living throughout the Nuba Mountains and Abyei districts
Give thanks for the church leaders who are willing to travel to dangerous areas to minister to people. Pray for protection and ask the Lord to make them a source of encouragement to all people.
For wisdom and urgency among international role players, such as the African Union and the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), to help solve the issues. Pray that the international community will be able to engage both parties to implement resolutions.