December 2024, an expected timeline for South Sudan’s re-marriage to democracy at the sacrament of conduct of general elections, but the altar seems dented with unpalatable circumstances of detentions.

Re-marriage; because we had undoubtedly briefly embraced the ideal prior to secession, under the then Sudan, an exercise that saw Salva Kiir Mayardit emerge as President of the semi-autonomous South. At least 10 governors in the region enjoyed the same advantage and privilege of the power of votes before a divorce from what resembled democracy.

Now, that all intents and promises are towards placing South Sudan into a full democratic embrace, the tenets of the ideal should be reflected on the faces of all players under a leveled ground.

Pitches of detentions of political cadres as in Aweil County of Northern Bahr El Ghazel and also teachers in some states are not impressive to hear when on a journey to democracy, a common interest for all.

Diversity in unity should be the terminology of the day, for free and fair elections, one that is acceptable within and the international community would be a targeted focus to achieve, not that tainted.

Credibility of an election is paramount for it comes with costs either financially, materially and time or even tolerance. So, warranted circumstances should neither discredit nor fail its outcome.

Arbitrary arrests and detentions are some of the unjustified events that are likely to circumvent such activities so prime to a nation.

Democracy is easily mentioned in words but hardly embraced in its actuality, because it guarantees freedom of expression, assembly, and association, among others, that might not sound well across political divide.

Political players at all levels are entitled to present their manifestos to the electorate in an open. Competitive environment, to enable electorates (voters) make informed choice among candidates. We are yet to witness this, to unfold, come 2024.

Political tolerance, perseverance and acceptance of divergent views are much needed for our country to transcend into democracy.

However, since President Salva Kiir Mayardit put an injunction on party activities, it isn’t ripe a time as laws governing the exercise are not in place.

Till the president appoints a commission with the chairperson as a team leader to steer the exercise, then, shall every actor and spectators wear party jerseys for the match.

As of now, let’s stay cool, peaceful, all people of a nation like no political party exists.