VATICAN (SE): Pope Leo XIV issued a heartfelt appeal during his Angelus address on November 2 for a ceasefire in Sudan, the intervention of the international community, and the immediate opening of humanitarian corridors and aid delivery to the war-ravaged country, Vatican News reported.
“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.
He condemned the “Indiscriminate violence against women and children, attacks on unarmed civilians, and serious obstacles to humanitarian action,” adding that these are “causing unacceptable suffering to a population already exhausted by long months of conflict.”
Pope Leo’s concern and his specific mention of the onslaught in El Fasher come amid reports of militias committing grave atrocities against the civilian population during a siege of the city.
He invited the faithful to pray for the victims and urged responsible parties to halt hostilities.
“Let us pray that the Lord may receive the deceased, sustain those who suffer, and touch the hearts of those responsible,” Pope Leo said, renewing “an urgent appeal to the parties involved for a ceasefire and the prompt opening of humanitarian corridors.”
He also called on the international community “to intervene with determination and generosity, to offer assistance and support those who devote themselves to providing aid.”
Turning his attention to Tanzania, Vatican News reported that Pope Leo referred to recent political developments in the country.
“Let us also pray for Tanzania, where, after the recent political elections, clashes have broken out with numerous victims,” he said.
He invited all involved to “avoid all forms of violence and to follow the path of dialogue.”
A presidential election in Tanzania on Wednesday triggered three days of violent protests after the main rival candidates were excluded from the race and president, Samia Suhulu Hassan, was declared the winner with 98 per cent of the vote.
Hundreds of people were reportedly killed during the protests following the election. The opposition has called for an independent investigation.
