By Matik Kueth
A civil society activist on Tuesday urged South Sudanese political leaders to reflect deeply on the unfulfilled promises made during the country’s long and painful liberation struggle, as the nation prepares to mark its 14th anniversary of independence on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
In a press statement, Ter Manyang, Executive Director of the Centre for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), emphasized that true independence cannot be measured merely by borders, but by justice, dignity, and the everyday well-being of every citizen.
“The Centre for Peace and Advocacy is calling on the South Sudanese political leaders to honor the promises during the country’s liberation struggle. The people of South Sudan waited decades to gain independence in the hope of building a country rooted in justice, equality, and national unity. However, the disturbing conflicts of 2013 and 2016 shattered those dreams and hopes, leaving many citizens disappointed,” Manyang stated.
The activist’s message serves not only as a critique but as a stark reminder of the ideals that inspired South Sudan’s hard-won independence.
He stressed that the nation’s leaders are now morally and historically obligated to fulfill the vision for which countless South Sudanese sacrificed.
“The struggles for liberation were not just about achieving independence. It was about creating a country where every citizen can live in dignity, peace, and freedom,” he said.
Calling for urgent reform, Manyang pointed to systemic issues such as tribalism, corruption, nepotism, and exclusion that continue to obstruct South Sudan’s development.
He urged for a transparent, accountable, and inclusive government that truly reflects the country’s diversity.
The activist underscored that independence must go beyond symbolic sovereignty.
“True independence means access to food, clean drinking water, quality health care, roads, and education systems that empower the citizens to become innovative and problem solvers in the country,” he stressed.
He further called on the nation to remember and uphold the constitutional values and symbols that define South Sudan’s identity.
“CPA reminded political leaders of the national values enshrined in the constitution and the code of arms. These include the words justice, liberty, and prosperity. Those are not just mere words; they are commitments that must be reflected in the nations,” he emphasized.
Manyang further challenged all South Sudanese stakeholders, from government officials to civil society, to commit to strengthening the rule of law, promoting human rights, and ensuring access to basic services.
“It is the political leader to commit to strengthening the rule of law in the country, protect and promote human rights, ensure access to basic services for all citizens, embracing education and infrastructure, fostering a sense of national unity and shared values,” he appealed.
South Sudan, wracked by political instability and civil violence, has not officially commemorated Independence Day since the civil war began in 2013.
Over the years, citizens have awaited a meaningful commemoration of the historic day, July 9, but repeated delays and unresolved issues have prevented national celebrations.
Last year, government spokesperson Michael Makuei stated that Independence Day had not been celebrated due to a lack of resources. Since then, the government has provided no further explanation.