The painful realities of abortion and child abandonment are stark blemishes on the fabric of our society. Every time a child is discarded or a pregnancy is intentionally ended, it is a cry of anguish that reflects systemic failures: parental neglect, financial instability, fear of judgment, and dangerous advice. As a community, we must address the root causes and understand the profound, often irreversible, implications of these actions.
For women facing an unwanted pregnancy, the pressure can be immense. Often, partners influence the decision to abort, sidestepping proper medical and parental consultation. We must be clear: abortion should only ever be considered a medical procedure undertaken strictly on the advice of a doctor for legitimate health concerns. Outside of these critical situations, an abortion carries heavy, long-term risks, including secondary infertility and even death from complications or unsafe practices.
To every woman considering this choice, I say: Think about your life after the act. Do not allow temporary problems to pressure you into a permanent decision with consequences you may regret forever. If you are not ready for a child, the only safe and responsible paths are abstinence or the diligent use of protective measures. Disrespecting the gift of life is a grave matter, especially when so many families worldwide suffer the agony of infertility and separation because they cannot conceive. To those who have already made this choice, I urge you to seek repentance and healing.
The responsibility to protect life does not rest solely on the pregnant woman.
Alarmingly, some young girls are pressured into abortions by their own parents, particularly mothers who fear the shame and financial burden associated with their daughter’s pregnancy, especially if she is still in primary school. Paying for an illegal abortion puts the girl’s life at risk and can have tragic outcomes. Parents, we must stop this harmful cycle. Allow your daughter to give birth. If the partner disappears, enroll her back in school after the baby is born and support her until she finishes her education. Education has no age limit, and a mother’s support is vital for both her and the child’s future.
Furthermore, we must address the issue of absent fathers. Many men, after deceiving a partner, fear responsibility and vanish, creating emotional and financial havoc. To men, I say: Face your obligations. Hiding is a cowardly act that exacerbates the crisis and pushes women toward desperate measures. Being ready to take responsibility is the moral choice, as abortion is not a solution—it is a crime.
The South Sudan Penal Code Act of 2008 is explicit: “Killing an innocent baby is unlawful.” The law is clear on the gravity of this crime, with convictions carrying a sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment and heavy fines.
I appeal to the Government of South Sudan to vigorously enforce this law, ensuring that all individuals—whether they perform, encourage, or procure an unlawful abortion—are held accountable.
We cannot afford to be silent bystanders. Let us commit to building a support system for pregnant women, educating our youth, and holding men accountable for their actions. We must choose life, responsibility, and compassion.
God Protect South Sudan.
Be a Spectator of Change!