South Sudan Religious Leaders have condemned the killing of Rev. Christopher Maring, a pastor of the Africa Inland Church (AIC), who was shot dead by six unknown gunmen at his residence in Gudele, Juba, on Wednesday.
The Religious Leaders Forum’s statement, issued by
Chairperson Archbishop Dr. Paul Benjamin Yugusuk on Thursday, described the
attack as ‘a heinous and cowardly killing.
“This evil and senseless act is a grave sin against God, an
attack on the Church, and a direct assault on the sanctity of human life. The
shedding of innocent blood has no justification, neither moral, cultural, nor
political,” Yugusuk said.
According to reports, the gunmen forcibly entered Rev.
Maring’s home, violently confronting his wife and children. Upon hearing the
disturbance, Rev. Maring came from another room and was immediately beaten and
shot multiple times.
During the attack, one of the bullets struck one of the attackers,
who was unable to escape and was apprehended and taken to the hospital for
treatment, while the other five perpetrators fled.
“Such violence threatens the soul of our nation and deepens
the suffering of a people already longing for peace, justice, and security,”
the forum stated.
“Rev. Christopher Maring was a devoted shepherd, a humble
servant, and a man of faith who dedicated his life to the service of God and
His people. His brutal murder has robbed the Church and the nation of a
valuable life and a voice for peace.”
The statement extended condolences to the bereaved family,
the leadership and faithful of the Africa Inland Church, and all who are
grieving.
The Religious Leaders Forum calls on the Government and all
security organs to ensure accountability in the matter.
“Conduct a swift, transparent, and credible investigation and to ensure that the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice without delay. Failure to do so only fuels fear, impunity, and lawlessness,” the leaders demanded.
