Dear Mr. President,
I am heartened to write to your office. As the head of state and father of the nation, it excites me to express my thoughts through this letter—not because I oppose your leadership, but because there are important issues I wish to bring to your attention.
Many troubling events are occurring in our country, such as the shooting of innocent civilians on the streets and in shops. The most pressing issue is the economic hardship that has led to widespread starvation in both villages and urban areas. Civil servants have gone a year without pay, yet they continue to hold on to the hope that you will eventually address these critical problems as our standing president.
You have accomplished much for South Sudan; you fought for its success, and people now expect even more from you. This expectation is vastly different from the support you received during the struggle for freedom.
Every tribe supported you, not only with arms but also through food, especially from the Equatorial regions. Unfortunately, even your soldiers are now resorting to robbing civilians while on duty.
Today, the fight has shifted from a struggle for freedom to individual pursuits, exacerbated by the tribalism that has tarnished the achievements of the past 13 years. Politicians seem focused only on their own interests and those of their families, often looking for development opportunities abroad because they lack trust in their own country. This self-serving mindset has hindered our ability to combat the ongoing economic crisis.
As citizens suffer from hunger and endure months without salaries, it feels as though we are still under the oppressive regime from which the South separated. This raises critical questions: Why did we fight for independence? What do our leaders believe they are accomplishing? Is this country stable, or are we merely biding time?
Many questions require answers from our leaders, yet each question seems to elicit a troubling response. In Western Equatoria State, and partly in Central Equatoria State around Kajo-Keji, citizens have lost their lives day and night, despite the presence of a standing army.
As the head of state, you may understand that after fighting for freedom, the priority should be to ensure the happiness and well-being of your citizens. You should aspire to be remembered for liberating the country and promoting peace, much like many other African leaders who fought for their nations without being misled by the wrong people. I appreciate your efforts as our leader.
I urge you to recognize the dire situation faced by citizens and show gratitude by ensuring that they receive the salaries they are entitled to. A nation cannot stand on the shoulders of its leaders alone; if there are misguided advisors surrounding you, I encourage you to reconsider their influence on the future of this country.
God Protect South Sudan
Be the Spectator!