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“Armed clashes have been taking place since 15 April in Khartoum and elsewhere in Sudan, with the deaths of approximately 100 civilians currently reported,” said Pillay. “The armed violence and instability, which has also resulted in the deaths of three UN staff, has resulted in the suspension of World Food Programme and other humanitarian operations in Sudan.”
Many people – including staff of the Sudan Council of Churches – have been trapped in the offices or workplaces due to the unforeseen sudden onset of the fighting. “Schools, health facilities, markets and other basic services have closed or reduced their operations,” said Pillay. “The WCC is gravely concerned about the wider impacts on the Sudanese population, which was already experiencing significant humanitarian needs, political and economic challenges, a high rate of inflation, widespread poverty, and severe impacts of climate change.”
Pillay appealed for an immediate ceasefire and an end to armed hostilities for the sake of the suffering Sudanese people. “We hold those who have lost loved ones, and those who have been injured, in prayer for their consolation and recovery,” he said. “We pray that God will grant peace and restore normalcy and stability in Sudan.”
