JUBA, South Sudan, July 17, 2026 – The Catholic Bishops of the Ecclesiastical Province of Juba have called for peace, national dialogue and urgent action to address South Sudan’s worsening economic and security situation following their annual meeting held in Juba from 15–17 July 2026.
In a communiqué issued at the conclusion of the meeting, the bishops expressed solidarity with South Sudanese facing severe economic hardship caused by the continued depreciation of the South Sudanese pound, soaring prices of goods and services, and delays in the payment of government salaries.
The bishops also voiced deep concern over the persistent violence affecting communities across the country, repeated clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and armed opposition groups, and what they described as the violent encroachment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces along South Sudan’s southern border.
While thanking God that no Ebola cases have been reported in the country, the bishops urged continued vigilance against the disease. They also expressed sympathy for farmers whose crops were damaged by drought and heat waves, appealing to the international community and humanitarian partners to assist communities facing growing food insecurity.
Addressing the country’s political future, the bishops noted the National Elections Commission’s announcement that general elections are scheduled for 22 December 2026, a date that coincides with the Christmas season. They warned of a potential constitutional and transitional crisis, whether the elections proceed or not, and called on political leaders to fully implement the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement in good faith.
The bishops urged that all decisions regarding the electoral process be guided by dialogue, constitutional order, legal clarity, adequate preparation and the common good, emphasizing that the elections should strengthen national unity rather than deepen divisions.
They also appealed to all South Sudanese to reject violence, tribalism, hatred, misinformation and incitement, encouraging citizens to embrace fraternity, respect and solidarity.
Reaffirming the Church’s commitment to promoting peace, justice and reconciliation, the bishops announced that they will soon release a comprehensive pastoral message offering deeper guidance on the national elections and the state of affairs in South Sudan in light of the Gospel and the Church’s social teachings.
The communiqué concluded with a call for prayers across the country, asking God to grant wisdom to national leaders, courage to citizens, healing to communities and lasting peace for South Sudan through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace.
The communiqué was issued in Juba on 17 July 2026 at the conclusion of the bishops’ annual meeting.
