By Peter Lokale Nakimangole
Link to web article here.

TORIT, 25 December 2013 [Gurtong] – “As a spiritual body, South Sudan Coalition of Episcopal Churches in the United States is concerned with the level of violence taking place in Juba, Bortown, Akobo and other areas of South Sudan. As a body of Christ, South Sudan Coalition of Episcopal Churches in the United States strongly condemned senseless killing of civilians,” they said in a statement.

The church urges President Kiir's government to declare ceasefire and refrain from escalating the conflict, protect all civilians across the country, agree to dialogue as a way to resolve any political differences.

“We are urging Dr. Riek Machar and all dissatisfied parties to accept ceasefire and/or initiate ceasefire and adhere to principles of democracy that they are advocating for protection of civilians, respect their rights and properties in towns and/or areas under their control,” they said.

The leaders also appealed to the United States government and United Nations to exert political pressure on President Kiir and Dr. Riek Machar and all opposition parties to immediately stop hostilities and help to establish displace camps and provide necessary security protection to civilians displaced by the ongoing violence across the country.

The statements was signed by Rev. John Deng, South Sudanese Congregation Saint Paul Episcopal Church, Kansas City MO and Chairman of South Sudan Coalition of Episcopal Churches (SSCEC) in the United States.