Press statement: Strive For National Unity In Honor Of South Sudan's Independence

Major General John Sunday Martin (Image Provided/Supplied)

(Pachodo.org) - Fellow Country men and women, In the spirit of patriotism, and in honor of all those who died and suffered for our nation’s independence, let us remember who we are, and that; the Republic of South Sudan was forged in liberation struggles, bound together by a single purpose and strong, collective leadership.

However, since independence, we have witnessed troubling trends of tribalism and divisive politics used by some in leadership to set our people against one another.

We must remember that we are a multicultural nation. Our diverse tribes, traditions, norms, and political opinions are what make us unique. Differences may at times create tension or conflict, but they must never overshadow what united us during the liberation struggle and the referendum. Our one common goal; the progress, dignity, and prosperity of South Sudan and all its people. That goal must be the foundation of leadership and the guiding ideal behind our National Unity.

Our differences should not be treated as sources of division, but as resources for unity when guided by responsible leadership. The greatest unifying force in any nation is not laws, constitutions, roads, or buildings. It is the people, brought together by leaders who put the nation first.

Independence means South Sudan is a sovereign state. But we, the people, are not independent of one another. We are interdependent tribes, communities, and citizens of different views, bound together as one nation, the Republic of South Sudan.

Without good leadership, there can be no unity. And without unity, there can be no development, integrity, freedom, democracy, justice, or genuine patriotism.

Therefore, as we commemorate this Independence Day, our national focus must be on leadership. South Sudan needs leaders who unite, not divide. We must address the challenge of poor leadership by creating opportunities for new, patriotic, and service-centered leaders to rise.

To our leaders, this is the moment for self-reflection and renewed commitment. The nation requires the kind of leadership it has been missing since independence — leadership grounded in service, accountability, and unity of purpose.

Therefore, in honor of our heroes and heroines, let us dedicate this day to building good leadership for our national cause, as the highest tribute to those who died and suffered for the liberation and independence of our great nation.

Happy Independence Day to all South Sudanese. Let us celebrate with a renewed spirit of the revolution, and with hope for the changes we demand.

Major General John Sunday Martin
(July 9th, 2026)