By Philip Buda Ladu
United States government urged the country’s political leaders in the transitional government to fulfil the promises of a just, democratic, and peaceful society.
In a message delivered on the occasion of South Sudan’s 13th Independence Anniversary, US Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken, highlighted the need for concrete steps towards a brighter future.
He acknowledged the high expectations South Sudanese held for a democratic, just, transparent, and peaceful society in the wake of their independence in 2011.
“The United States calls on South Sudan’s leaders to take the steps necessary to meet these expectations and to guarantee their people a future of peace and the ability to choose their leaders through genuine and peaceful elections,” the statement partly read.
Blinken further called on the transitional government to prioritize transparency and the responsible use of public resources.
“We urge the transitional government to start using public financial resources transparently for the good of all the people of South Sudan,” he stated.
The United States also urged the transitional government to create an environment that is conducive to the effective provision of international donor assistance, including by reducing the costs and risks faced by those trying to help the South Sudanese people.
Secretary of State, Mr. Blinken, emphasized the long-standing relationship between the US and South Sudan, built on shared values of “democracy, human rights, and a government that is responsive to their needs.
The US reiterated its commitment to “stand with those who work to advance these values” for a peaceful and dignified life for all South Sudanese people.
This message comes amidst ongoing challenges in South Sudan, including concerns about corruption and the slow pace of implementing the revitalized peace agreement.
South Sudan seceded from the Republic of Sudan on July 9, 2011, emerging as the world’s newest nation amidst joy and high expectations from its people.
Its leaders were expected to work to establish a democratic, just, and peaceful society, but only two years after gaining independence, the young East African country was engulfed in a series of political wrangles that later took place along ethnic lines, chattering citizens’ hopes of a prosperous, stable country.