At 13th Anniversary Celebration, Political Victory Secured but Economic Triumph Remains Elusive in South Sudan
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By Ater Garang Ariath, Aweil, South Sudan
Saturday, 13 July 2024 (PW) — As we commemorate thirteen years of political independence from Sudan since 9th July 2011, we South Sudanese and our leadership continue to grapple with the challenge of attaining true economic independence—the crucial factor that binds our diverse society together.
Our nation struggles to bridge the vast financial chasm created by the disruption of oil production from Sudan, a consequence of the ongoing civil war between the forces of Gen. Hemeti and Gen. Burhan. This economic turbulence has left civil servants and security forces without salaries for months, its impact reverberating through society without discrimination between elites and common citizens.
While South Sudan’s early independence was shrouded in dark history, the determination and growing spirit of our nationalistic young generation give us hope. We will overcome these man-made hardships and proclaim “hallelujah!”
We fought side by side as brothers and sisters through bloody battles and secured political victory. However, we allowed ourselves to be driven by a mentality of privilege rather than focusing on progressive nation-building processes.
South Sudan at 13 is indeed a celebration worthy of my vocal ululations. I say it loud and clear: bravo, my fellow countrymen and women, on this unique and historic day of our independence!
Today presents an opportune moment to reconsider our path to national recovery. I strongly urge our country’s leadership to maximize its cabinet with God-fearing, honest, and hardworking individuals to lead our nation across various political portfolios.
Admittedly, there has been considerable upheaval within the current Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGONU). Nevertheless, we citizens hope to witness collegial working relationships and a renewed focus on the bigger picture—one that will rally the nation behind the RTGONU leadership as partners in peace and governance.
Our government must create opportunities to employ young graduates, men and women alike, who will build families and educate their children to become valuable members of South Sudanese society.
The principles of rule of law, civic liberties, democracy, and a competitive economy are undoubtedly crucial, as are concrete reform plans and the consistent development of civil society. However, without a binding sense of purpose, these ideas may falter. History shows that in times of crisis, nations often find their moment of truth by turning to eternal values such as justice, dignity, repentance, altruism, and freedom.
At such junctures, a nation realizes its opportunity to atone for past mistakes and enter human history as an exemplar for future generations.
We, as South Sudanese masses, bear a collective responsibility to discourage the opposition’s inclination to assume power without first seeking a mandate from our populace through democratic means. We, the people, have borne the brunt of unending transitions since independence in 2011.
In conclusion, I implore our leaders to collaborate in ending the prevailing political trust deficit among themselves and courageously hold elections, allowing South Sudanese to choose their preferred leaders.
I wish all South Sudanese, my fellow men and women, a joyous Independence Day Anniversary once again as we mark 13 years as free birds in our own home.
The author, Ater Garang Ariath, is a South Sudanese Journalist and former Secretary General of the Defunct Aweil East State Government. He can be reached at atergarang452@gmail.com.
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