In South Sudan’s politics, we all encounter a vital challenge in public life: the moment when upholding our principles demands a price. It is easy for anyone to show courage when defending a position that aligns with their political interests. However, when doing what is right jeopardizes our status, confuses our allies, and empowers our critics, that is when we truly reveal our character. We don’t truly stand out in good times; we shine when we dare to defend the truth amid adversity, even when it challenges our integrity.
In recent times, I have observed our national discourse deteriorate into a moral marketplace, where every act of conscience and morality is presumed to have a price. We have become so entrenched in transactional politics that we can no longer identify genuine principles when they present themselves.
Consider this: When I addressed the legal shortcomings in the prosecution of Dr. Riek Machar, a man I have never met and whose politics I oppose, no one questioned my motives. When I defended Gen. Mangar Buong, it garnered silence. Hitherto, when I speak against the mockery faced by an elderly, H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit, I am suddenly accused of being bought. Suddenly, people claim that Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit has paid me off. Suddenly, I am said to have abandoned my opposition and that I was already on my way home after eight years of exile.
What has changed? It is not my principles; it is your politics.
Our fathers’ generation, including President Salva Kiir, did not merely traverse this land; they bled for its very existence. While their governance may be imperfect and at times disappointing, they deserve the grace to make mistakes. Those whose greatest sacrifice for South Sudan is merely typing derogatory comments from afar should not insult them; they deserve dignity.
What type of political culture have we fostered when defending human dignity is considered a sign of corruption? When remaining consistent in our principles is reinterpreted as betrayal? When is the only means for opposition to gain credibility is through acts of cruelty?
Some have turned insult into an industry, measuring patriotism by the viciousness of their attacks. They wait not for ideas but for instructions and transfers from those who profit from our conflict. I will not join them. Being an asylum seeker in a foreign country does not grant a license to wreak havoc in your homeland. No matter how beautiful or secure a foreign country may be, it can never replace one’s cradleland. Home is always the best.
My defense of President Kiir does not stem from an agreement with every decision he makes. I stand firm on the distinction between legitimate criticism and dehumanization. Once we cross that line, we forfeit the moral authority to govern anything, including ourselves.
Do understand that my opposition is firm when it is warranted. My defense is steadfast when dignity requires it. My conscience remains my own, unpurchased, unrented, and untouchable.
If this confuses you, angers you, or makes it difficult to categorize me, then I consider that a positive outcome. South Sudan does not require more individuals who simply choose sides; it needs people who understand the importance of upholding principles.
The question is not whether Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit paid me. The question is: what have you become that you cannot fathom anyone acting without a financial incentive?
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.