By Yiep Joseph
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has called on South Sudanese to embrace unity, reconciliation, and solidarity.
The head of state said the country’s future depends on its ability to overcome divisions as it prepares for its first general elections.
Addressing the nation during celebrations marking South Sudan’s 15th Independence Anniversary on Thursday, President Kiir reflected on the country’s journey since independence.
He acknowledged that the conflict that erupted in 2013 had slowed national development and delayed the realisation of the aspirations for which many South Sudanese fought.
“While our war of national liberation carried clear objectives, the conflict since 2013 has prevented us from fully delivering on those promises. Therefore, the solution to our current problems lies in remaining united. The spirit of solidarity, reconciliation, and unity will make our country stronger than ever,” Kiir said.
The President paid tribute to the men and women who sacrificed their lives during the liberation struggle and commended members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and other organised forces for their continued service in defending the country’s sovereignty and maintaining peace and security.
Looking ahead, Kiir described the planned December general elections as a defining moment in South Sudan’s democratic journey and a major milestone in implementing the peace agreement.
He said the elections would mark the end of the transitional period and provide citizens with an opportunity to shape the country’s future through the ballot.
The head of state appealed to political parties, civil society organisations, and the public to support the upcoming voter registration exercise, stressing that broad participation would be essential to ensuring credible and inclusive elections.
“I therefore urge all political forces and civil society organisations to encourage widespread participation in the upcoming voter registration exercise. This registration will enable our citizens to exercise their democratic rights during the elections this December,” he said.
Concluding his address, President Kiir urged South Sudanese to celebrate the country’s 15th Independence Anniversary peacefully and reaffirmed that unity, reconciliation, and collective responsibility remain the strongest foundation for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity.