By Otwari Dominic Oromo.
South Sudanese need to reflect back on the main objectives of the liberation struggle which were gaining independence and self-determination for the people of South Sudan who had been marginalized and oppressed by the government of Sudan for decades.
The movement was primarily led by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A), which was founded in 1983 with the aim of liberating the people of South Sudan from the oppressive policies of the Sudanese government and this impunity forced many South Sudanese with the support of the Nuba Mountains irrespective of their tribe, state, religion, age, gender to wholly participate in the struggle that’s why it’s very wrong for individuals or even a single tribe to claim the credit to be more South Sudanese than the others because every South Sudanese deserves to equally enjoy the fruits of the struggle.
The SPLM/A’s objectives included securing the rights of the people of South Sudan to determine their own political future, ending the marginalization of the South Sudanese people, achieving greater representation in the national government, and securing more equitable distribution of resources. The movement also sought to address historic grievances and injustices that had been inflicted upon the people of South Sudan.
After a long and difficult struggle trampled by Arabs, South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, fulfilling the main objective of the liberation movement. However, as it’s said the fish begins to rot from head not the tail, as the young nation is now facing numerous challenges in the years since, including ethnic conflicts, political instability, and economic difficulties which drowns many citizens into the abyss of despair.
Now, if we want to preserve and revive our resistance and liberation then we have to devote to our enthusiasm to the construction of the country. The liberation and construction are inseparable. Each of these two causes will ensure the success of the other and to curb this several remedies that could be implemented to address these challenges.
Promoting national unity: One of the main challenges facing South Sudan is ethnic conflict. Promoting national unity and reconciliation through dialogue and peace talks could help to resolve these conflicts.
Strengthening democratic institutions: South Sudan’s political instability has been exacerbated by weak democratic institutions. Strengthening these institutions and promoting good governance could help to stabilize the country.
Addressing economic challenges: South Sudan is facing significant economic challenges, including high unemployment rates and an underdeveloped infrastructure. Investing in infrastructure development and job creation programs through youth empowerment programs could help to address these challenges and promote economic growth.
Continuous humanitarian assistance: South Sudan has also experienced humanitarian crises, including displacement and food insecurity especially now with the surging influx of refugees from Sudan. Providing humanitarian assistance could help to alleviate the suffering of those affected by this crisis
Encouraging regional cooperation with the neighboring states: South Sudan is located in a region with other countries facing similar challenges. Encouraging regional cooperation and collaboration could help to address common challenges and promote stability in the region.
Overall, addressing these challenges will require a multi-faceted approach that involves the government, civil society organizations, the private sector, and international partners working together to implement effective solutions.