Jul 8, 2011 / 18:07 pm
Local and international Catholic organizations are working to ensure a peaceful transition to independence for South Sudan on July 9, after two decades of struggle that killed or displaced over six million people.
South Sudan's people will be “free to build a society the way they want to according to their own vision,” said Bishop John H. Ricard, a representative for the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, speaking to CNA from the southern capital Juba on July 8.
Thousands are expected to attend the independence day ceremonies, including northern Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir. On the morning of July 9, he will begin the celebration to the tune of the new Sudan National Anthem.
After the anthem, South Sudan's proclamation of independence will be read, and dignitaries from China, the U.S., the European Union, the United Nations and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development will give speeches.