By Matik Kueth
On Saturday, President Salva Kiir honored the heroes and heroines who lost their lives during South Sudan’s liberation struggle, saying their sacrifices laid the foundation for the country’s independence.
In a statement issued to mark the 43rd anniversary of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA), Kiir described the deceased liberators as brave patriots whose blood and dedication paved the path for a free and sovereign South Sudan.
He said the country’s independence was achieved through years of sacrifice, resilience, and determination by men and women who fought for justice, equality, and self-determination.
“On this day, we remember the brave forces of Battalion 105 who fired the first bullet that began our revolution, as we mark the 43rd Anniversary of our Movement. We also remember the sacrifices of our martyrs who gave their lives during the long struggle for our nationhood,” Kiir said.
Kiir paid tribute to prominent liberation figures, including the late Dr. John Garang de Mabior, William Nyuon Bany, and Kerbino Kuanyin Bol among others.
“Today, we remember, and I salute my colleagues, starting with Comrade Dr. John Garang de Mabior who led our struggle with steely determination, Comrade Kerbino Kuanyin Bol who fired the first bullet in Bor, Comrade William Nyuon Bany whose actions in Ayod amplified the momentum of our struggle, and all the sons and daughters of South Sudan who joined the cause for national liberation. You will never be forgotten. You are our history!” he added.
He also urged South Sudanese citizens to preserve the values for which the liberation struggle was fought by promoting peace, unity, and national reconciliation across the country.
“As we celebrate this day, every citizen should reflect on the journey that brought us to nationhood. May the sacrifice and dedication of those who came before us inspire the next generation to move South Sudan forward,” he appealed.
The president said honoring the martyrs should go beyond remembrance and inspire citizens to work together toward stability and development.
He further called on political leaders and communities to set aside divisions and focus on building a peaceful and prosperous nation for future generations.
South Sudan commemorates SPLA Day every year on May 16 to remember the beginning of the liberation movement in 1983, which eventually led to the country’s independence in 2011.