Bishop Hiiboro: Martyrs Deserve Peace, Not More Blood

(TOMBURA-YAMBIO) – Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio has issued an appeal for peace and national unity in South Sudan, calling on both the government and citizens to confront the country’s deep humanitarian crisis and moral breakdown.

His message was delivered on July 30 during the commemoration of Martyrs’ Day, a solemn occasion to remember victims of conflict and honour their sacrifices.

Bishop Hiiboro, who also serves as President of the Interreligious Council for the Peace Initiative in Western Equatoria State, pledged his continued commitment to peace and reconciliation.

“As a bishop, I pledge to speak out until the truth is heard. To walk with the victims and wounded families. To offer the Church as a space for reconciliation and dialogue. To pray unceasingly for peace and work side by side with all those who pursue it. I will not remain silent. I will not give up. I will be with you until peace prevails,” he said.

His message came following ongoing violence and suffering in Tombura County and other parts of the country. He described the reality many South Sudanese citizens still face.

“After four years of bloodshed, homes in flames, families destroyed and buried dreams, our people live under plastic sheets, drink contaminated water, walk in fear and bury their loved ones in silence. This is not a political issue, it is a humanitarian tragedy and a moral failure.”

Martyrs’ Day, observed annually, is dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in violent conflict. Bishop Hiiboro urged the public not to allow these sacrifices to be forgotten.

“Let us not belittle their sacrifice with more blood. Let us honour them by bringing peace where there is pain and life where death has reigned.”

He said the suffering of communities such as Tombura has lasted too long, and the time has come for national reflection and decisive action.

“We do not wish to condemn, but to awaken the conscience of a nation. We urge you as pastors, fellow citizens, and children of one God. May Tombura be our turning point, a sacred place where the nation chooses healing over hatred, truth over propaganda, and hope over despair.”

In a direct appeal to the national government, Bishop Hiiboro called for urgent measures to stabilise the country.

“Now is the time to act. We call on everyone, from the highest office to the smallest local leader, to act with boldness, compassion, and determination,” he said.

His proposals include deploying protection forces to stop ongoing violence, disarming those who possess weapons unlawfully, and restoring the rule of law.

He also called for inclusive national dialogue that involves all stakeholders, including youth, women, religious institutions and civil society. In addition, he urged authorities to take firm action against hate speech, tribal incitement and disinformation. Ensuring access to humanitarian assistance and rebuilding social services, including health and education, was also emphasised.

Addressing the people of South Sudan directly, Bishop Hiiboro reminded citizens that the wounds of Tombura affect the entire country.

“Tombura is not alone. When one limb suffers, the whole body suffers. This is not a tragedy of Tombura, it is a wound of South Sudan,” he said.

To elders, he appealed for wisdom and leadership. To women and mothers, he asked for healing voices and moral resistance. To the youth, he urged them not to allow themselves to be used for destruction, but instead to become builders of a peaceful South Sudan. Religious leaders, he said, must unite in promoting truth and reconciliation.

He also made a plea to the international community to remain engaged.

“Do not look the other way. Peace needs partners. Lives must be saved,” he said.

Warning of the consequences of inaction, the bishop cautioned that continued violence would result in the disappearance of entire communities, further spread of tribal hatred, and erosion of national trust.

“Generations of young people will be lost to revenge or violence,” he said.

However, Bishop Hiiboro also offered a vision of hope.

“If we choose peace, it will be a new dawn for South Sudan. If we act together, with sincerity, peace will flourish. Children will return to school, families to their homes, and farmers to their fields. Trust will grow between tribes, between citizens and their government. The soul of South Sudan will be reborn not in blood, but in justice.”

He concluded his appeal by saying, “May Tombura become a sign that South Sudan chooses life.”