SPLM-DC Statement on the Independence of South Sudan

Dear Compatriots,

As the people of South Sudan celebrate their independence on the 9^th of July, we bow our heads in salute of their heroic and costly struggle. This is a moment of great joy and rejoicing.

Our people have every right to rejoice for this is a moment they have fixed their eyes on since decades gone and never had the slightest doubt that it shall one day come. It is time to be joyful for this event is a culmination of their long chain of hard and difficult struggle that took many forms. The struggle of the first generation against colonial rule in the 19^th century, the strong sentiments of our chiefs and clerks in the forties, the political battles of our parliamentarians in the fifties and thereafter, and the military struggles of the Anya-nya, Anya-nya-2 and the SPLA. As we celebrate this day we must remember that all our people contributed to making it a reality. Some talked, some wrote and some fought to achieve our goal. No body, tribe or region should claim that it deserves to be remembered that they alone liberated this country. If we are to succeed we should put the interest of our country above the interest of our states, tribes and parties.

On this auspicious occasion, we reiterate our congratulations to the people of South Sudan for their overwhelming decision to choose a state of their own, and hope that the rare unity that they displayed during the referendum will be the hallmark of the new independent state. United we stand, divided we fall. Many have died to make possible our celebrations today; it is a moment to remember them.

Fellow Citizens

As we sat to chart our destiny, we were fully aware that independence is not the balsam or the magic wand that will solve overnight all our problems. We are aware that we shall face trials and challenges, even tribulations. Independence is not an end in itself. It is a beginning of self rule, which requires peace and resolve to promote stability, provide good governance, uphold the rule of law and usher in development. Above all, we must remain united. Unity does not mean that only one set of beliefs is allowed or that only one answer exists. It means accommodating varieties of views and ideas; all of which can help build a diverse and creative society. It is unity in diversity, so to speak.

Dear Compatriots,

As we mark this day, we need to look into the future with hope, but not blind hope. Consensus on a number of key issues is essential for our march together to create a viable state in South Sudan. The following are some of the pressing ones.

First, our politicians fought for half a century for the attainment of a federal system of government for our people as the only guarantee to preserve the unity of the then Sudan which is characterized by diversity. In fact, South Sudan was far ahead of North Sudan on this matter. South Sudan is full of diversities as well, and hence it needs to be governed through a federal system. It will be the worst irony in history that a people who sacrificed for the attainment of federalism are denied it when they are said to have become free.

Second, Good governance with its six pillars of: provision of security, supremacy of the rule of law, multi-party democracy, a conducive environment for economic growth and prosperity, service delivery and a vibrant civil society.

Third, wage peace in South Sudan. In this context, the Government needs to seek a political settlement with the SPLA rebels, stamp out inter and intra-tribal conflicts and carry out well planned and well executed disarmament of armed civilians all over South Sudan.

Fourth, the Government is to develop a sound blueprint on its foreign policy perspectives based on the interest of our country. Countries do not have permanent friends or permanent enemies, they do have permanent interest.

Fifth, establish a civil service imbued with professionalism and devoid of partisan politics; a civil service that delivers services without fear or favour.

Sixth, transparency at all levels of government. This is the only way to instill trust in ourselves and also to fight corruption that has now reached a cancerous stage.

Fellow Compatriots,

The road we took to arrive this far was a long and rocky one. The sacrifices of our people were immense. Many doubting Thomases thought we would not make it, we did. Many prophets of doom still believe that our country will not stand, let us prove them wrong. We can only do this through unity of purpose and the realization that the democratic revolution of the twenty-first century is for rule based on the sovereign will of the people.

Forward with the people; together we shall win!

Long live SPLM-DC

Long live the unity of the people of South Sudan.

UNITED WE STAND DIVIDED WE FALL.

Date: 7^TH July 2011