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FROM THE OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
August 1, 2005
NSCC Statement and Messages of Condolence Following the Death of Sudan's First Vice President Dr. John Garang De Mabior
We have learnt with profound shock and deep sorrow of the untimely death of Sudan’s First Vice President who is also President of the Government of Southern Sudan Dr. John Garang De Mabior.
He died on Saturday evening in a helicopter crash having arrived in South Sudan from Uganda. Several fellow Sudanese and Ugandans also lost their lives.
As a result, dark clouds have suddenly billowed over Sudan as the shocking reports of his death hit all of us like a thunder-bolt, coming at a time when our hopes were at all time high and when we were set for the reconstruction of our nation, a nation that would uphold peace and human dignity.
We will indeed remember Dr. Garang as one of the leading architects of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. It is paradoxical that his death should come hardly three weeks following his appointment to the substantive positions as the country First Vice President and President of the Government of Southern Sudan.
We wish to appeal to all Sudanese to remain calm, vigilant, and committed to the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). It is only in this way will we win the commitment and support of the international community.
We also appeal to Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A) to rise to the challenge of the moment and remain firm in the spirit of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and for the unity of Southern Sudanese people. We are encouraged by the statement issued by Cdr. Salva Kiir Maryardit, Vice President, Government of Southern Sudan and Deputy Chairman of the SPLM expressing commitment to unity and to implementation of CPA.
It is our prayer that the Sudanese government will live up to the highest hopes of the people of Sudan, ensuring that the present dark clouds do not eclipse our aspirations.
We wish to covey our heartfelt messages of condolence to Madame Rebecca Garang and her family as well as the families of the other deceased persons and the people of Sudan.
It is further our prayer that God will grant you all the grace to endure the pain of the tragic loss.
(signed)
Rev. Dr. Haruun L. Ruun
Executive Secretary
New Sudan Council of Churches
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