By: Esther Aurelio Agira
South Sudan believes in education as a vital tool for national development and social transformation. Every year, thousands of students graduate from various universities across the country. However, this growing number of graduates faces a significant unemployment crisis. This challenge is driven by several factors, including nepotism and corruption. In addition, many graduates prefer office-based jobs while the country urgently needs technical and vocational skills.
Moreover, the government has also contributed to the high rate of unemployment by favoring tribal affiliations and appointing family members and relatives to positions based on personal rather than merit. Such practices undermine meritocracy and weaken public trust in state institutions.
Recently, the appointment of children and close relatives of top government leaders to high-profile positions, including roles in the oil and gas sector and contract related offices, has intensified public concern about nepotism in the country. Nevertheless, it is important to acknowledge that some of these individuals are genuinely qualified for the positions they hold.
One such example is (the) appointment of the daughter of the President of the Republic of South Sudan; Hon. Adut Salva Kirr, the Senior Presidential Envoy on Special Programs. Some believe her appointment is based on merit rather than family ties. In the case of Hon. Adut, she is an able leader whose leadership skills, kindness and gentle approach to public service have earned her respect among colleagues and the public alike. These qualities suggest that she brings value to her role beyond her family’s background.
However, it is equally reasonable to consider the broader political context. Her appointment may also be viewed as strategic move by the president to expose her to the governance, prepare her for future leadership and equip her with greater national responsibilities. This perspective raises important questions about succession, transparency and equal opportunity within public institutions.
Ultimately, balancing merit with fairness is essential, as public confidence depends not only on individual competence but also on the government’s commitment to open accountable and inclusive governance.
One of the reasons some leaders appoint family members or close relatives to key government positions is lack of trust in state institutions. In such circumstances, leaders tend to rely more on family loyalty than on professional civil servants, especially in sensitive sectors such as security, finance and intelligence to mention a few. While this approach may offer personal reassurance to those in power, it often comes at the expense of institutional growth, professionalism and public confidence in governance.
For the government to restore the confidence of its people, it must move beyond reliance on family ties and instead invest in strong, credible institutions. First, appointments to public office especially in sensitive sectors such as security, finance, intelligence and the oil and gas industries should be based on merit, competence and proven integrity.
Transparent recruitment processes and clear qualification criteria would help assure citizens that positions are earned not inherited.
Second, the government should strengthen state institutions by empowering professional civil servants and protecting them from political interference. When institutions function independently and efficiently, leaders will no longer feel compelled to depend on family loyalty for security or control.
Third, accountability must be enforced without exception. Anti-corruption bodies should be allowed to operate freely, and public officials regardless of status or family connections must be held accountable for misuse of power or public resources. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.
Fouth, the government should promote inclusivity and national unity by ensuring fair regional, ethnic, and gender representation in leadership positions. When citizen see themselves reflected in government, trust grows naturally.
Finally, open communication with the public is essential. The government should regularly engage citizens through public forums, media briefings, consultations, listening to grievances and responding honestly. Trust is built when leaders govern with transparency, humility and genuine commitment to serve the people rather than themselves.
Esther Aurelio Agira can be reach on Email: esteraurelio91@gmail.com