Dear PESS Family and Friends,
As friends of Project Education South Sudan, we want to share with you our concerns regarding the fighting in South Sudan that is spreading beyond the capital in Juba to other areas where we work involving tribal and ethnic violence.
This is a time for all sides to show restraint and come together in dialogue before the fighting escalates further. The political and military unity that has been built over the many years of peace between tribes, clans and regions in South Sudan could be lost without the leadership of those who represent the various factions in this struggle. In the end it is the children and people of South Sudan who will suffer.
The peace and security of the years since the Comprehensive Peace Treaty was signed and the hope for a prosperous and thriving nation based on democratic principles could be lost with a return to civil war, this time between brothers and sisters who fought side by side for the freedom that has come at such a price between the North and South in Sudan.
We call upon all leaders in South Sudan whether political, religious, tribal or within communities to engage in dialogue toward a peaceful resolution of differences. A respect for the rule of law and due process should guide the behaviors of all parties in these matters regarding those who have been arrested and detained. Those who perpetrate violence should be held accountable for the crimes they have committed.
We also ask that the international community, the United Nations, the African Union, the government of the United States and other nations offer their assistance in whatever way possible to stop the spread of this senseless violence in South Sudan.
We pray for the safety of the communities we work with and our South Sudan Director, along with their families, as they deal with their safety and challenges of the disturbing events unfolding in South Sudan.
Your prayers, e-mails, Facebook and Twitter posts urging restraint in support of peace are most welcome and appreciated.
