The Archbishop of Gulu Catholic Diocese, John Baptist Odama has appealed for strengthening of bonds of unity amongst Ugandans and South Sudanese.
The Archbishop made the call as he paid a visit to the South Sudanese Embassy in Uganda.
Odama, who was accompanied by other religious leaders was handing over a communique from Caritas-led peace discussions on South Sudan in Gulu to South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir Mayardit.
Speaking at the embassy, Odama emphasized that besides sharing borders, Ugandans and South Sudanese share a lot of historical ties, thus the need for tracing the two countries’ mutual relations all back.
He further expressed concerns over political tensions happening around the world, notably in the East African region, and urged for embracing of dialogues and humanity.
“We are concerned about our relationship or peace all over, with the Congo, we shall soon also be going that side or the Sudan. Or the Kenya with the Tanzania. All these we are concerned about our relationship,” Odama said.
“There shouldn’t be anything of fighting in East Africa. These are now brothers, therefore we are one really. That’s what we are all after.” he added.
Speaking to journalists, the Ambassador of South Sudan to Uganda, Simon Deng noted that the Archbishop’s visit was a follow up on a meeting that was done in November last year where there was intercultural and interreligious dialogues amongst South Sudanese and Ugandans.
He also noted that such dialogues with the religious leaders are part of the efforts to support peace process in South Sudan as the country gears for the upcoming general elections in December.
“So that’s the key thing. They came and we’ve also discussed several other things as the government, we are going to go through an election in December this year.” the ambassador said.
It should be remembered that South Sudan is set to hold its first election since gaining Independence about 13 years ago.
Ambassador Deng appealed to South Sudanese nationals in Uganda to return to their home country and participate in this historical election.
“So the next challenge is this election for South Sudanese to decide who to lead them for the next five years. And that will not be determined when people are not at home, they should come, register and vote.” the ambassador appealed.
Also present at the colorful visit was John Bosco Kumakech Aludi, who represented the national director of Caritas Uganda.
SOURCE: NILEPOST
