Hon. Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit and Hon. Monica Achol Abel Aguek, in my view, represent two distinct forms of rising female visibility. The former is rising through legacy, integrity, accountability, and empathy, and the latter rose through a personal journey premised on the ambition to serve the public.
The outcry that the two are only rising because of their big names is a little misplaced. Having a name does not equate to leadership. The two have on many occasions portrayed selfless dedication to public service as reflected in their local responsibilities.
Hon. Adut’s dedication to public service has roots in the ASK Foundation. Monica Achol’s public life is based on her commitment to serving the citizens of Lakes State. Both of them have achieved tangible results. However, true leadership is measured by contribution, accountability, and results.
In spite of that, the duo in question is facing significant criticism and distractions from various voices. Their leading critics are women. Their critics have created channels that they are using to torment them. They are making claims that the two have stolen the national resources without exhibiting any evidence or supporting points. Others are attributing certain big decisions made by the president to them. This stage is early.
Critics should exercise patience and give them some time, as their efforts could potentially lead to the restoration of peace in the country. Women are peacemakers; the two can expedite certain processes. Who knows, they might be working towards the acquittal and release of Dr. Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon and other unjustly detained prisoners. Perhaps they can change the country’s direction in a positive way.
For these reasons, South Sudanese should take a moment to silence the noise, observe, and then judge. The judgment of these two young women should not come early before they start their work. Judging too early is always the wrong way of doing things, and nations don’t work that way. Judgment might be too loud, but patience is always wiser. History will not be silent on them. As others have noted, they will judge them harshly if they are a national torment and favorably if they do well.
We expect much from you, Hon. Adut and Hon. Achol. Leadership is in the work you do to the satisfaction of the subjects. It is not about personal joy; it is about selflessness.
Till then, yours truly, Mr. Teetotaler!
The writer, Dr. Sunday de John, holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from the University of Nairobi, Faculty of Business and Management Sciences and Faculty of Medicine, respectively. He is the current Chairman of the South Sudan United Front-Progressive and can be reached via drsundayalong4@gmail.com
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.