Bishop Matthew Remijio Adam Gbitiku of the Catholic Diocese of Wau. (Photo: Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops' Conference

Catholic leaders have called on South Sudanese to reject violence, hate speech and division as the country prepares for the December 2026 elections.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Catholic Bishops of the Ecclesiastical Province of Juba urged citizens to promote unity, respect and solidarity, saying South Sudan is at a critical moment in its history.

The bishops also expressed concern over continued insecurity, including communal violence and clashes between the SSPDF and armed opposition groups.

The religious leaders also raised concern over what they described as the encroachment of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) along South Sudan’s southern border.

Speaking on behalf of the bishops, Bishop Matthew Remijio Adam Gbitiku of the Diocese of Wau appealed to South Sudanese to work together for peace.

“We equally appeal to all South Sudanese to reject violence, hatred, tribalism, misinformation, and every form of incitement. Let us cultivate a spirit of fraternity, respect, and solidarity. remembering that we are one people with a shared destiny,” he said.

The bishops urged citizens to take part peacefully in the democratic process and help build a nation founded on justice, reconciliation and lasting peace.

“As Pope Francis reminded us, “Peace is both a gift from on high and the fruit of a shared commitment.” The Catholic Church remains committed to accompanying the people of South Sudan through prayer, moral guidance, and constructive engagement,” he added.

They also called on religious leaders, families and all people of goodwill to pray for wisdom among leaders, healing for communities and unity for the country.