Pope Leo XIV appeals for end to Sudan conflict as thousands killed in El Fasher
He urged both sides to cease hostilities immediately and allow life-saving aid to reach civilians, while also appealing to the international community to intensify efforts to end the crisis.
Pope Leo XIV on Sunday called for an immediate ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access in Sudan, expressing deep concern over the escalating violence and suffering of civilians in the city of El Fasher.
The Pope’s appeal follows disturbing reports from El Fasher, where the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) recently seized control after months of intense fighting.
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The city’s fall, confirmed last week, has unleashed a surge of violence and devastation. According to the Sudanese Armed Forces, more than 2,000 people have been killed by the RSF since the offensive began.
International organisations, led by the United Nations, have condemned the deteriorating situation, warning that El Fasher has descended into an even bleaker state since coming under RSF control.
"With great sorrow, I am following the tragic news coming from Sudan, particularly from the city of El Fasher in the afflicted northern Darfur region," Pope Leo said during his Angelus address.
Allow life-saving aid
He urged both sides to cease hostilities immediately and allow life-saving aid to reach civilians, while also appealing to the international community to intensify efforts to end the crisis.
"Let us pray that the Lord may receive the deceased, sustain those who suffer, and touch the hearts of those responsible," he said.
Turning to East Africa, Pope Leo also expressed concern over the political unrest in Tanzania following recent elections that saw President Samia Suluhu Hassan re-elected with 98 per cent of the vote.
The disputed poll, which barred major opposition candidates, sparked violent protests across major cities, leaving dozens dead and prompting a heavy deployment of security forces to quell the demonstrations.
Tanzania’s main opposition party, Chama cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), has rejected Samia’s victory, denouncing it as illegitimate and unreflective of the will of Tanzanians.
"Let us also pray for Tanzania, where, after the recent political elections, clashes have broken out with numerous victims," said Leo XIV.
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