Officials and members of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) on Thursday marked South Sudan’s Martyrs’ Day in Torit, paying tribute to those who died during the country’s liberation struggle while urging citizens to preserve peace and national unity.
The commemoration, held under the theme “Transforming SPLM Vision into Action,” brought together senior SPLM officials, state government leaders, veterans, youth and women’s representatives, party supporters and members of the public.
Martyrs’ Day is observed annually on July 30 to honour those who died during South Sudan’s decades-long struggle for independence. The day also marks the anniversary of the death of Dr. John Garang de Mabior, founder of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A), who died in a helicopter crash on July 30, 2005.
Speaking at the event, Torit Municipal Council Mayor and caretaker commissioner of Torit County Eddy William Ponsiano urged South Sudanese to honour the country’s fallen heroes by protecting the peace for which they fought.
He called on citizens to reject violence, hatred and divisions, saying lasting peace depended on unity across political and ethnic lines.
“The sacrifices made by our heroes should inspire us to live together peacefully and work for the development of our country,” Ponsiano said.
He also urged leaders to uphold justice, accountability and public service, and encouraged young people to contribute to nation-building.
SPLM Eastern Equatoria Secretary Akileo Mboya Peter described Martyrs’ Day as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle and urged citizens to safeguard the gains of independence.
“The freedom we enjoy today did not come easily. Thousands paid the ultimate price, and many families lost loved ones. We must never forget their sacrifice,” he said.
Akileo called on communities to promote peace, reconciliation and national unity while supporting development through agriculture and education.
Makuch Aru Luach, the SPLM National Secretariat’s secretary for states and membership affairs, said the commemoration honoured those who died for South Sudan’s liberation and praised Eastern Equatoria’s contribution to the struggle.
He urged party members to remain united and strengthen SPLM structures while promoting peace.
“The greatest way to honour our martyrs is to remain united and continue building the peaceful South Sudan they dreamed of,” Makuch said.
Eastern Equatoria Governor and SPLM state chairperson Louis Lobong Lojore said the country’s independence had come at a heavy cost and urged citizens to remain united despite ongoing economic and social challenges.
“Our loyalty remains with those who sacrificed their lives for this nation,” Lobong said. “We honour them by preserving peace, supporting one another, and building a stronger South Sudan.”
He called on communities to continue supporting reconciliation, peaceful coexistence and development across the state.
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