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women from Yirol, South Sudan. 

Women from Yirol, South Sudan. 

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While people joyfully celebrated their independence 10 years ago, today we need to express our deep concern,” reads the statement. We stand in solidarity with the people of South Sudan who for many years have borne the burden of conflicts and injustice, instead of enjoying the fruits of a new system.”

The statement urges an immediate end to the continuous suffering of people in various locations of the country and expresses solidarity with survivors of violence and commends women and men for their strength in speaking up against sexual and other violence.

We would like to draw attention to the urgent need for peace and a transparent governance system with binding laws and implementation of those laws in South Sudan,” reads the text. We urge parties to the conflict in South Sudan to lay down arms, uphold the protection of civilians, to prohibit their respective forces to commit, command or condone acts of violence including sexual violence.”

The message also strongly condemns attacks on church actors, humanitarian workers, peace workers and human rights activists. We urge and call for increased preventative, investigative and just efforts to end these devastating acts of violence,” reads the text. We express our solidarity with the millions of refugees and internally displaced people; there needs to be a lasting peace and a safe environment, so those who were forced to leave their homes can return.”

In conclusion, the text urges churches to play a positive role.

We continue to stand with the people of South Sudan,” concludes the statement. We call upon all in South Sudan to respect the dignity of human life.”

Read the full statement