Martyrs Day Memorial: Negotiating “Living in the past” and “Recollecting the past” in South Sudan
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Agaar Mayor Gai-Makoon, South Sudanese Medical Student in Egypt
By Agaar Mayor Gai-Makoon, Juba, South Sudan
Wednesday, 31 July 2024 (PW) — On Tuesday, 30 July 2024, South Sudan commemorated the heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives during the liberation struggle. Every 30th of July has been designated as a day to honor these individuals and reflect on the collective efforts that led to the birth of our nation.
A pertinent question arises on this day: Is South Sudan living in the past or recollecting it? This query is complex, requiring a nuanced understanding of our current circumstances and how they compare to our history. The endeavors that shaped both periods are equally significant, and opinions on this matter may vary. Before offering my perspective, let’s examine the two concepts: “living in the past” and “recollecting the past.”
“Living in the past” implies an excessive focus on bygone events or experiences. In this context, it suggests that the present offers little solace, prompting individuals or institutions to seek comfort in past achievements and successes, regardless of their current relevance or benefit.
South Sudan’s independence was a monumental achievement, secured at an immense cost. While we honor the sacrifices made, we must also scrutinize our present situation. What tangible benefits has independence brought? What fruits of our hard-won freedom do we enjoy today? Independence is a cherished, lifelong accomplishment, but when it fails to meet the aspirations for which it was sought, it can lead to regret and disillusionment.
It is incumbent upon the government to assess whether the anticipated benefits of independence are being realized and enjoyed by citizens. The populace expresses their satisfaction or discontent in various ways, and we have witnessed numerous manifestations of dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. Many had envisioned more employment opportunities, improved infrastructure, better education, and a robust healthcare system in our newly independent nation, given our control over resources and international relations.
For many citizens, these aspirations remain distant dreams. The level of public discontent with the current government is high, and the fact that we are responsible for our own shortcomings—rather than external forces—renders occasions like Martyrs’ Day more an exercise in nostalgia than joyous celebration.
“Recollecting the past,” on the other hand, involves remembering significant events or periods, whether positive or negative. The 30th of July, for instance, marks the day Dr. John Garang, former Vice President of Sudan and leader of the SPLM/A, perished in a plane crash. This event can be viewed from two perspectives:
Firstly, some remember Dr. Garang for signing the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which ended a devastating war that had ravaged families and communities. For these individuals, this day symbolizes the end of killings, forced military recruitment, and the plundering of agricultural produce. They feel compelled to honor and appreciate his legacy, even in his absence.
Secondly, others remember him with a sense of loss, believing that Dr. Garang’s death also marked the demise of the vision and ideals they fought for. This group attributes the current failures and sufferings to the absence of his leadership. The ongoing challenges in our country lend credence to this perspective, highlighting that South Sudan is indeed recollecting its past.
The government commemorates this day because the sacrifices of these martyrs legitimize its authority. It bears the responsibility to establish the fundamental elements of statehood. Only after fulfilling this obligation can citizens truly celebrate both their country and a responsive government that addresses their needs.
At present, citizens take pride in having a country they can call home. However, the government, as the governing authority, must consider the interests of the people by ensuring a strong connection between the past and the present. We must bridge the disconnect to make our struggle relevant to our current circumstances.
A past that bears no relation to the present is not worth remembering. While every citizen has a role to play in the nation’s prosperity, the government bears the greatest responsibility. Each constitutional officeholder and leader must embrace the role of a change-maker. Change is not a privilege but something that requires concerted effort.
The annual observance of 30th July serves as a poignant reminder of the hardships endured by war veterans and the ultimate sacrifices made by martyrs in the liberation struggle that led to the birth of the Republic of South Sudan.
The author, Agaar Mayor Gai-Makoon, is a concerned South Sudanese medical student in Egypt who can be reached via his email address: thieng.thiengwada@gmail.com.
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