Church leaders demand justice after pastor shot dead in Juba

JUBA — South Sudanese church leaders on Thursday condemned the killing of a prominent pastor who was shot dead by unidentified gunmen at his home in the capital, Juba.

Rev. Christopher Maring of the Africa Inland Church (AIC) was attacked at his residence in the Gudele One neighborhood at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. A medical report confirmed he died from multiple gunshot wounds.

The AIC said in a statement it was “deeply concerned and sorrowful over the tragic incident” and stressed that, “We strongly condemn any act of killing, violence, or harassment directed against pastors, Church members, or any citizen.”

The South Sudan Religious Leaders Forum described the killing as a “brutal and unacceptable act.” According to the forum, six armed men forced their way into the home and confronted Maring’s wife and children.

When the pastor emerged to investigate the disturbance, “he was immediately beaten and shot multiple times,” the forum said.

The group’s chairperson, Archbishop Paul Benjamin Yugusuk, said one of the attackers was injured during the struggle and is currently in police custody at a hospital. Five other suspects remains at large.

“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,” Yugusuk said. He described Maring as a “devoted shepherd, a humble servant, and a voice for peace.”

The AIC said it was working with local authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. “The Church leadership is in contact with local authorities and community leaders to ensure that the matter is thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable,” its statement read.

Religious leaders urged the government to increase protection for citizens and warned that a lack of accountability would lead to further instability.

“We urgently call upon the Government and security agencies to conduct a swift, transparent, and credible investigation,” the Religious Leaders Forum said.

The AIC also appealed for calm, stating: “We call on the faithful and the public to remain calm, refrain from retaliation, and continue to pray for peace, justice, and the protection of God’s servants.”

“Violence must not become normal. South Sudan deserves peace, and peace begins with respect for life,” Yugusuk added.

Government and police spokespeople were not immediately available for comment.