CLICKSCROLLS NEWS
Mr Deg
On April 11, 2019, Pope Francis made a profound and unexpected gesture that captured the world’s attention. During a spiritual retreat at the Vatican aimed at supporting South Sudan’s fragile 2018 peace agreement, the Pope knelt and kissed the feet of South Sudan’s rival leaders—President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar.
The act, widely reported by Vatican News, CNN, and other major outlets, was a striking plea for peace in a nation torn apart by years of civil war. By humbling himself before the leaders, Pope Francis sought to remind them of their responsibility to end the violence and work toward reconciliation.
Despite the Pope’s heartfelt appeal, South Sudan’s path to lasting peace remains uncertain. Years after the retreat, the country continues to struggle with political instability, violence, and humanitarian crises. The 2018 peace deal has been only partially implemented, leaving many citizens disillusioned.
Now, with Pope Francis’ passing, the memory of his gesture serves as both an inspiration and a sobering reminder. His plea for peace was a moment of hope, but the leaders of South Sudan have yet to fully honor that call.
Pope Francis’ act was more than just a symbolic gesture—it was a challenge to those in power to choose peace over conflict. As South Sudan’s future hangs in the balance, the world continues to watch, hoping that its leaders will finally turn his plea into reality.
The question remains: Will they rise to the occasion, or will the Pope’s unforgettable appeal remain an unfulfilled dream? Only time will tell.
