By James Innocent
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A) in Yei River County on Saturday peacefully marked the 43rd anniversary of the movement.
During the celebration, leaders and residents called for lasting peace, unity, and national development in South Sudan.
The celebration, organised by the SPLM in Yei, attracted hundreds of people from across the county, including party members, SSPDF officials, community leaders, elders, traditional dance groups, youth groups, and persons living with disabilities.
The event was held at Yei Freedom Square under the theme “SPLM stands for a peaceful and prosperous South Sudan.”
The anniversary commemorates the founding of the SPLM/A in 1983, a liberation movement that fought successive wars in Sudan and later led the struggle that culminated in the independence of South Sudan on 9 July 2011.
Speaking during the celebrations, the commissioner of Yei River County, Samuel Henry Malimbo, applauded the organising committee for what he described as a colourful and peaceful event. He also thanked the communities of Yei for turning up in large numbers to commemorate the anniversary.
Malimbo called on armed groups still engaged in conflict to renounce violence and join the peace process, saying war continues to undermine development, education, and the well-being of citizens.
“War destroys development, affects education, and weakens the morale of citizens,” he said, urging those carrying arms to join the government in pursuit of lasting peace and stability.
The SPLM secretary in Yei River County, Ale Satimon, urged citizens to honor the heroes and heroines who sacrificed their lives during the liberation struggle that eventually led to the independence of South Sudan in 2011.
He further encouraged residents of Yei River County to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence among communities despite political and social differences.
Meanwhile, the chairperson of the Yei River County Youth Association, Gaga Frank, called on young people to promote peace and unity as a pathway to development.
He also appealed to the government and development partners to invest in youth empowerment through entrepreneurship training, education, and skills development programs aimed at reducing unemployment and improving livelihoods.
The SSPDF Commander in Yei, Brigadier Joseph Garang, urged residents to cooperate with security forces in maintaining peace and security across the county.
“Our cooperation as citizens and security organs is essential for peace to prevail,” he said.
Also addressing the gathering, Paramount Chief Joseph Brown Lo Mosee called on local chiefs to remain neutral during elections and political campaigns.
He advised traditional leaders to uphold fairness and avoid siding with political groups to maintain public trust and social harmony within communities.
The Executive Director of Yei River County praised the leadership of Commissioner Samuel Henry Malimbo for organising what he described as a successful and peaceful event.
He further urged local government officials and community leaders to uphold professionalism and ethical conduct while carrying out their duties, warning against the misuse of public offices for partisan political interests.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Organising Committee, Comrade Banja, applauded the communities of Yei River County for attending the celebration in large numbers and maintaining peace throughout the event.
The anniversary celebrations concluded with cultural performances, traditional dances, and renewed calls for peace, reconciliation, and unity among the people of South Sudan.