Forgotten Heroes: Neglected War Veterans and Liberators in South Sudan
As the Country Celebrates Martyrs’ Day, the Plight of South Sudan’s Heroes Remains Unaddressed
By Emmanuel Malual, Juba, South Sudan
Sunday, 30 July 2023 (PW) — As South Sudan commemorates Martyrs’ Day, a day dedicated to honouring those who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence, it is crucial to shed light on the plight of another group of heroes who the state has neglected: war veterans and liberators.
These brave men and women, who fought tirelessly for freedom, live in dire conditions, struggle to make ends meet, and lack the support they truly deserve.
In the years leading up to South Sudan’s independence from Sudan in 2011, countless individuals took up arms in the fight for self-determination. They braved unimaginable hardships, enduring violence, displacement, and loss while maintaining an unwavering commitment to securing a better future for their fellow citizens.
However, despite their significant contributions, the South Sudanese government has failed to address these war veterans’ and liberators’ needs adequately. Many of them live in poverty, without access to basic necessities such as healthcare, housing, and education.
Some are disabled as a result of their service, but rehabilitation centres and support systems are scarce or non-existent.
John Deng, a 68-year-old war veteran, recounts his struggles with a heavy heart. “We fought for this country, for our people, but now we are left to suffer. Our sacrifices seem forgotten,” he laments. Like many others, Deng feels betrayed by the nation he fought to build.
The neglect of these heroes is a moral failure and a missed opportunity for national reconciliation and healing. Recognizing the sacrifices made during the war and addressing the needs of war veterans and liberators would help foster a sense of unity and respect among the nation’s citizens.
It would also send a powerful message to future generations about the value of sacrifice and collective responsibility.
While the government has promised to address the issue, there is a pressing need for immediate action. Advocacy groups and civil society organizations have been calling for increased financial support, the establishment of rehabilitation centres, and comprehensive social welfare programs tailored specifically to the needs of war veterans and liberators.
International partners and the broader South Sudanese society also have a role to play in ensuring these heroes receive the recognition and support they deserve.
By amplifying their stories and advocating for change, we can help create a movement that demands justice and dignity for those who sacrificed so much.
As South Sudan celebrates Martyrs’ Day, it is imperative that we reflect not only on the lives lost but also on the living heroes who continue to bear the scars of war.
The time has come for the state to fulfil its obligations and honour the bravery and sacrifices of these individuals by providing them with the support and care they need and deserve.
Only then can South Sudan truly attain healing, reconciliation, and sustainable peace.
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