Since taking power in 2005, SPLM has fostered deep divisions and ethnic identity politics. Many South Sudanese today question the country’s unity and viability. Driven by a thirst for power and wealth, the SPLM leadership has raised questions about their moral compass. With power and politics intertwined, many were wondering whether the SPLM leaders operate with any moral principles.
Moral principles are vital for a healthy society. They provide a foundation for ethical governance, ensuring that policies are just, fair, and benefit the people. However, the current SPLM leadership seems disconnected from these principles. Misunderstanding hinders the ability to discern right from wrong, hold leaders accountable, and guide both leaders and citizens through difficult challenges. No society can thrive without strong moral values. The South Sudanese citizens must continue to advocate justice and fairness to ensure that the SPLM policies are not discriminatory, oppressive, or targeted at specific tribal groups.
The South Sudanese people, who overwhelmingly voted for independence from Sudan in 2011, are the true foundation of our nation. They must unite to bring about positive change, rescuing our country from disintegration and fostering social cohesion and stability. Any solution we pursue must be just and fair to all citizens. The SPLM leadership has unfortunately worked to divide the people along ethnic lines, damaging our social fabric. I believe the citizens can rebuild the trust eroded by the SPLM leaders’ pursuit of power and wealth. Embracing moral politics makes it easier to hold leaders accountable, ensuring they uphold ethical standards and acting in the best interests of the people. South Sudanese must be the driving force for change, demanding accountability and transparency from the government.
Our nation needs a leadership characterized by transparency in decision-making, so that citizens can understand how policies are made and implemented with their interests in mind. The SPLM leadership has since 2005 engaged in widespread corruption and mismanagement of national resources that should have been used for South Sudan’s development. Therefore, a strong moral framework is crucial to deter corruption and abuse of power. Adopting moral principles can lead to greater social cohesion and reduced conflict within our communities. Morality can also help our society address critical issues like poverty, inequality, discrimination, and human rights, striving for greater equality and respect for all citizens. It is imperative that South Sudan’s leadership be guided by principles, inspiring citizens and society to build a better future for our country, promoting positive social change and democratic progress.
The citizens must reject identity politics, as it fosters hatred and violence. It is crucial for South Sudanese to prioritize moral principles to build bridges between ethnic groups, foster peace, harmony, and a just society. I firmly believe that shared moral values are the cornerstone for us as citizens, enabling us to work together for unity and the betterment of our society. A key factor in the senseless 2013 war the SPLM leadership’s lack of moral principles and political conviction, which corrupted our political culture. These self-serving SPLM leaders have hijacked the country, neglecting its citizens. The SPLM oligarchy has wasted billions, fueling a brutal war that displaces millions. The government even encourages violence among previously peaceful communities.
The war, driven by the SPLM’s internal power struggles, has left the South Sudanese bearing the devastating consequences. Consider the vast socioeconomic inequality created by the SPLM elite. The SPLM oligarchy fuels social instability, destroying the fabric of our society and leaving a legacy of dysfunction. The government continues to ignore the citizens’ welfare, promoting dangerous rhetoric that jeopardizes South Sudan’s future. Citizens must understand that their division only benefits the SPLM elite. South Sudanese political leaders should focus on national messages that address citizens’ concerns nationwide, rather than ethnic-based rhetoric, which fuels violence and division. Furthermore, South Sudan’s politicians must change their rhetoric, abandoning the encouragement of ethnic violence, as it threatens our national unity.
The strength of a nation lies in the unity of its people. By standing together, South Sudanese can overcome the brutality of the SPLM authoritarian regime and end their suffering. The anguish of the South Sudanese reflects the devastating impact of a corrupt leadership, a stark reminder of God’s warning in Proverbs against leaders who harm their people. I believe divine judgment will extend beyond individual rulers to the corrupt system of the SPLM government. The oppressive regime in South Sudan will face God’s judgment for violating His purpose, forgetting that all authority comes from Him. President Salva Kiir and his government will be held accountable for the atrocities committed against the South Sudanese. South Sudanese must combat tribalism to build a more peaceful and inclusive society. A united citizenry is crucial for meaningful change. Similarly, opposition groups must unite, prioritizing national interests over internal divisions that have weakened resistance to Kiir’s authoritarian rule.
We will continue to advocate democratic change, the rule of law, and essential reforms: securing citizens’ livelihoods, achieving lasting peace, ensuring stability, and facilitating a dignified return of the displaced citizens. The current government lacks moral principles and the political will to resolve the crises they have created. The SPLM leaders have enriched themselves and their families, showing no concern for the hardships endured by the people. The ongoing economic crisis and the escalating armed conflict could potentially lead to the downfall of the authoritarian regime. Establishing strong institutions based on a federal system is crucial for sustaining democracy, ensuring citizen participation, political freedom, and improved economic and social opportunities. To bring about change, the people must voice their discontent with the Juba regime through widespread action. Simultaneously, the various opposition groups need to unite and offer concrete plans for the future. Without a unified approach, President Kiir’s government will remain in power, prolonging the suffering of the South Sudanese people.
The pursuit of national unity is paramount for achieving change. Citizens’ solidarity will foster a sense of shared purpose, strengthening communities and enabling collective action. These strong social bonds are crucial and the people of South Sudan deserve a moral leader who can facilitate nation-building. Time has come for citizens to realize their power to bring about change and end their suffering. This necessitates a firm commitment to national unity to achieve fundamental change. A new, democratic South Sudan must prioritize inclusion, improve the living standards, uphold the rule of law, and implement significant reforms to ensure a fair economic and political environment. The security sector must protect the citizens regardless of their ethnic affiliation, and combat corruption. The resilient people of South Sudan deserve true, patriotic and visionary leaders.
May God protect and bless the people of South Sudan!
The writer, Jwothab Othow, is an activist and critic of the South Sudan government. He can be reached at Jwothab@yahoo.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.