The very institutions meant to safeguard our nation are tragically failing our citizens. When the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF)—the face of our sovereignty—and armed groups engage in perpetual blame games, it’s the innocent citizens who pay the ultimate price. The devastating war in Upper Nile State exemplifies this failure, where escalating tensions fueled by both sides lead to mass displacement, a rising death toll, and the destruction of property, all of which cripple our nation’s economic potential.

The country held its breath, hoping for a new dawn when the first batch of unified forces drawn from the army, police, wildlife, prison, civil defense, and National Security forces graduated. The expectation was zero tolerance for insecurity. Yet, what followed was a profound disappointment and a security vacuum. The core issue remains: these screened forces were not deployed, were not armed, and worst of all, have not been paid their salaries.

This failure to complete the unification process has had immediate and dire consequences. The current insecurity crisis, particularly in Western Equatoria State, has forced over 50,000 people to flee their homes in Mundri and Mvolo. These aren’t just statistics; they are families uprooted, lives disrupted, and communities devastated.

The current transitional period, extended through a revised road map, was a necessary step to maintain the legitimacy of the government of national unity. This extension, however, must be more than just a document that “rings well” in the ears of the opposition. The government must now definitively prove its capacity to implement domestic solutions to the conflicts that have plagued us for years.

The original Revitalized Peace Agreement was hampered, in part, by the perception that it was driven by foreign influences and carried interests. For the road map to succeed, our leaders must cultivate a culture of trust and genuine collaboration among themselves. This positive maneuver is the only way to strengthen peacebuilding, regain the citizens’ trust, and earn the backing of the international community.

It is deeply perplexing and unacceptable that civilians are being threatened, not just in Western Equatoria, but in other areas like Yei River County, and effectively prevented from living in their homes. This stands in stark contradiction to Chapter 2 of the Revitalized Peace Agreement, which mandates the army’s sole duty is to protect civilians.

The principals of the agreement must set aside their differences and reaffirm their commitment to the full, urgent implementation of the peace deal. They must ensure that tangible peace, not merely a political truce, prevails across all of South Sudan.

I appeal directly to the government: fulfill your sovereign duty. Provide immediate and robust security for the people of South Sudan. Our citizens deserve to live in safety, to work their land, and to rebuild their lives free from the constant fear of displacement and death.

God protect South Sudan.

Be the Spectator!