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FREEDOM OF WORSHIP UNDER THREAT: THE PLIGHT OF SDA CHURCHES IN SOUTH SUDAN

South Sudan is a nation founded on Christian values and freedom of worship, as enshrined in its constitution. This mandate grants every citizen the right to worship without discrimination and intolerance. Although the country was declared a Christian nation in 2011, this declaration is not entirely reflected in practice, as freedom of worship also includes Muslims, atheists, and traditionalists. The question remains: Is this freedom truly exercised? 

The persistence of church persecution in South Sudan is alarming. A few years ago, Gen. Salva Thok, a powerful general and minister, ordered the demolition and destruction of the SDA Church in his home region. Recently, the SDA church was burned to the ground in the same region. On July 5, 2025, a media report indicated that SDA congregants were beaten and their church destroyed in Twic, purportedly due to disagreements with SDA doctrines.

While I may disagree with certain aspects of SDA doctrine, I strongly disagree with the way the SDA church is being treated in South Sudan. The treatment of the church undermines its invaluable services to the people, including education, radio outreach, and relief efforts through its affiliate organisation, ADRA. These contributions demonstrate the church's commitment to the well-being of the people. 

As a concerned citizen and critic, I urge the government authorities to investigate the challenges faced by churches in South Sudan and hold accountable those who violate the right to worship. We cannot continue to operate under oppression in the name of doctrinal disagreements. Every church, including the SDA, deserves protection from the government, which is supposed to support its people in need. 

In conclusion, South Sudan's commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which includes freedom of worship, must be upheld. The persecution of SDA churches not only violates this right but also challenges the principles of tolerance and coexistence. Any church that does not shed blood and exploit the people as a condition of worship must be given full rights and protection. 



Writer, Critic, and Teacher. 


Comment and share; let freedom of worship be upheld!


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