OpEd, Politics

My humble reminder to heroes, heroines and all the liberators

By Theem Isaac Machar Akot

 

I extend my warmest greetings to the liberators across our nation. It brings me immense joy to express my heartfelt admiration for your monumental achievements for our country. Your unwavering efforts are appreciated now and forever.

I wish to remind you of two vital points. First and foremost, the remarkable accomplishments you have secured for this nation are truly priceless. Your heroic spirit has earned you a cherished place in our hearts. South Sudan has emerged amidst the ranks of independent nations worldwide, a feat that would not have been possible without your bravery; without your courage, South Sudan could still be under the yoke of colonial powers.

I acknowledge the stark reality faced by many around the world who continue to be oppressed by harsh rulers, often due to a lack of genuine nationalism among their citizens. This is an essential truth that deserves our attention. In contrast, those of us in South Sudan are fortunate to enjoy the freedom that liberty affords.

I must recognize that the citizens are aware of your contributions. It is important for me to express this gratitude openly. You are among the most progressive and enlightened figures I have encountered. The enduring struggle of twenty-one years was undertaken by the resilient, not the weak, which is why you will be celebrated for generations to come.

I also feel compelled to bring to your attention the concerning state of our nation under your leadership. Political disputes and economic downturns are real threats to the sustainability of our nation. The ongoing political wrangling undermines unity and progress, creating an environment of uncertainty and division. Meanwhile, the economic recession has led to increased hardship for our citizens, jeopardizing livelihoods and the future prosperity of our nation.

Dear Liberators, I believe that achieving independence is a significant milestone; however, it is crucial to acknowledge that liberation without proper governance and a genuine concern for the populace can result in severe consequences. I observe that currently, over ten thousand citizens are suffering from hunger due to rampant dollar inflation, which highlights the priorities of our present governance.

I contend that a nation that is liberated but fails to care for its people endures far worse than one that remains under oppressive rule yet genuinely cares for its citizens’ welfare. I emphasize that the true essence of liberation must go beyond mere political freedom; it must also include social and economic justice. I feel it is our duty to ensure that the impact of our independence is felt by every citizen—not just as an ideological concept but as a tangible reality in their everyday lives.

I have noted the disturbing tendency for privileges to accumulate among a select few who were once our liberators, often at the cost of the masses. I urge those in these positions to refrain from using their newfound status for self-indulgence. Instead, I encourage them to adopt their roles as caretakers of the public interest, understanding that their well-being is closely tied to that of the people they serve. I find that the stark contrasts between the lives of the elite and the hardships faced by common citizens underscore a disconnection that must be urgently addressed.

I propose that the centralization of power and resources among a limited group only worsens the situation for ordinary citizens. I assert that the focus needs to shift towards fair resource distribution, transparency in governance, and inclusive policies that empower citizens.

I believe you are either unaware or indifferent to the immense suffering that people are enduring. Many claim that you are fully aware of the situation, so I need help understanding why it is so difficult to create solutions for these issues. It seems inhumane to turn a blind eye to the impoverishment of your people while laughing at their plight. Refusing to take action to alleviate their suffering appears to be an act of heartlessness, especially when you possess the knowledge and capability to address their worsening situations.

I sincerely hope that you, the liberators and leaders, will unite to address these challenges, ensuring that the sacrifices made for our freedom are not in vain. It is crucial that we all work together to nurture the nation you fought so hard to establish, ensuring a bright future for all South Sudanese.

The author is a third-year student at the University of Juba School of Education Department of English Language and Literature.

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