Open letter to Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit

Dear Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit. I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits.

My name is Ter Manyang’ Gatwech, a South Sudanese human rights activist and gender expert. I would like to extend my sincere congratulations on your recent appointment as Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programs. Although we may not have met in person, we are perhaps connected through social media. I have followed your journey and admire your intellect, passion, and potential.

I believe you have a bright future as a leader in our country. I write to not only congratulate you, but also with a deep concern for the current state of our nation. Your appointment has sparked both hope and skepticism. Many South Sudanese remain deeply disillusioned with the governance style of your father, President Salva Kiir. The question on many minds is: What legacy will he leave? More importantly, what role will you play, as his daughter and as a young leader from the Dinka community, in shaping a better future for our nation? South Sudan today stands at a crossroads.

Under your father’s leadership, the nation has faced profound challenges—political instability, economic collapse, insecurity, and the erosion of public trust. As a fellow citizen who is deeply committed to justice and equality, I urge you to become a voice for the voiceless.

Speak to your father—not just as a daughter, but also as a citizen concerned for the soul of our nation. Encourage your mother to use her influence to support national healing and inclusive dialogue. This country does not belong to one man or one ethnic group—it belongs to all South Sudanese, especially those who sacrificed so much during the liberation struggle.

True independence is not defined by flags and titles. It is measured by the ability of every South Sudanese child to access food, clean water, healthcare, education, and a safe home. Unfortunately, the vision of the liberation movement has been compromised. Many of the leaders who fought for our freedom now seem disconnected from the daily realities of the ordinary citizens. I also take this opportunity to urge you to advocate the release of Dr Riek Machar and other political detainees. A nation that imprisons opposition leaders cannot claim to be free or democratic.

South Sudan must recommit to upholding fundamental human rights and fostering genuine reconciliation.

Finally, be aware that there are both elders and young people who are quietly working to dismantle your father’s legacy. Whether intentional or not, this will have long-term consequences for national unity. I believe, as a woman and a leader, you have a unique and powerful role to play in fostering peace, transparency, and accountability. Let us not allow South Sudan to become a forgotten crisis in the eyes of the world. The future of our country depends on the actions we take today.

With respect and hope, Ter Manyang’ Gatwech

Gatwech is a human rights activist and gender expert. He can be reached on: termanyang24@protonmail.com / Cellphone: +211924538137

The views expressed in ‘opinion’ articles published by Radio Tamazuj are solely those of the writer. The veracity of any claims made is the responsibility of the author, not Radio Tamazuj.