As Christians across South Sudan mark Easter, a leading civil society organization has called on the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army to offer a lasting gift of peace by declaring a ceasefire and embracing dialogue.
Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), appealed to both parties to end the ongoing violence, which he said has brought immense suffering to innocent civilians, especially women and children.
“In this sacred season of Easter—marked by forgiveness, reconciliation, and hope—I urge our brothers and sisters in the White Army and the SSPDF to silence their guns and choose dialogue over violence,” Yakani said in a statement to the media.
He emphasized that the true spirit of Easter lies in healing and unity. “No matter how bitter you feel, let the guns go silent. Let’s sit down and talk. Ceasefire is not a sign of weakness, but a symbol of strength and responsibility.”
Yakani appealed to armed actors in Upper Nile and other conflict-affected areas to listen to the cries of the innocent and act in the spirit of the season. “With the tears of women, the cries of children, and the prayers of elders—let us stop the violence and commit to dialogue. Violence only brings suffering, displacement, and mistrust.”
He reiterated his call to both the White Army and the SSPDF to de-escalate tensions. “White Army, I call upon you—stand down and choose peace. SSPDF, step back from confrontation. Let dialogue prevail.”
Yakani also urged President Salva Kiir to take leadership by directing the National Transitional Committee (NTC) to convene inclusive dialogue among all stakeholders to resolve disputes threatening the peace process.
“Mr. President, the people of South Sudan are crying for peace and stability. Under your leadership, let the NTC bring all signatories together to recommit to dialogue and the implementation of the peace agreement,” he said.
In a separate Easter message, the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, also emphasized the need for reconciliation among citizens.
“The journey toward lasting peace requires us to lay down the burdens of the past, to heal the wounds of division, and to build bridges of trust and mutual respect,” Cardinal Ameyu said in his Good Friday message.
He encouraged South Sudanese to abandon hatred and division, and instead, embrace forgiveness as they reflect on the Resurrection of Christ.
Easter, one of the most sacred holidays in Christianity, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after His crucifixion. It is traditionally observed with prayers, reflection, and a renewed commitment to peace, love, and unity.
