06/09/2025
: Crawling to the road that would Heal the Rifts and Restore Peace. A Call for Unity
By Kulong Buom Chan, 6th September, 2025.
South Sudan's fragile peace continues to descend into deeper political disintegration; indicators revealed the end of the R-TGONU Agreement stated on February 17, 2025, in the Nasir battle.
The engineered conflicts in Upper Nile State, Western Equatoria, and Central Equatoria's Yei have ignited a renewed wave of unrest, driven by deep-seated mistrust among various factions.
However, it confused many; none couldn't believe that this is the end of revitalised peace. From therein, mistrust obstructs meaningful dialogue and prevents the resolution of complex political issues.
The ongoing violence and political strife threaten to undo any progress made, casting a shadow over the aspirations of a nation desperate for healing and reconciliation.
Evident need, if not addressed, then South Sudan will continue to be ensnared in a cycle of political instability.
At times, we askโourselves, questioning the true intentions of our leaders.
Like, do President Kiir and his entire team, as well as Dr Machar, genuinely desire peace to heal the deep rifts that have torn our nation apart?
If yes, then their commitment to peace should be sincere. Our just question is, what are the viable solutions to address the prolonged internal conflicts that have plagued South Sudan for far too long?
This question weighs heavily on the hearts of many South Sudanese who yearn for stability and unity, not me personally.
The answer lies in a heartfelt willingness to engage in dialogue and make genuine sacrifices for the well-being of their citizens.
Both President Kiir and Vice President Machar must recognise that the future of our nation is far more important than personal ambitions or political power.
The relentless pursuit of power and the unwillingness to compromise among South Sudan's leaders could ultimately lead to the country's downfall.
Peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is a profound and multifaceted ideal that requires active engagement and collaboration from all sides.
True peace embodies unity, mutual understanding, and a shared vision for a better future.
In the wake of the collapse of the 2016 peace accord, which was only revitalised in 2018, the citizens of South Sudan held onto what they believed could be their last hope for stability.
Yet, the quest for lasting peace has become increasingly elusive, further straining the fragile relationships among the warring factions.
The aspirations of the people, who yearn for a harmonious existence, are continually undermined by political squabbling.
Peace requires not just words but concrete action towards steps to inclusive governance and equitable resource distribution.
As citizens, we say the time for rhetoric is over; now is the moment for decisive action and meaningful dialogue. We need peace; we need conducive security.
Look, no country desires peace in the world more than South Sudan; the nation grapples with the consequences of these unresolved tensions, which are fuelled by misunderstanding and lack of genuine reconciliation.
In fact, a hope for peace lies in the hands of those who dare to dream beyond power struggles and embrace the rich potential of a truly inclusive society, at least to prosper.
A bold move taken by Adut Salva Kiir in the reunion of broken ties between leaders.
Following the recent appointment of President Kiir's daughter, Adut Salva Kiir, there has been a glimmer of hope emerging from the shadows of political wrestling in South Sudan.
On 5th September 2025, she made a surprise visit to Torit in Eastern Equatoria and engaged with some of the overlooked communities there on the ground.
Her move seems great and signals a potential shift towards inclusivity and dialogue in a country desperate for healing.
Adutโs promise to extend her visit to Yambio in Western Equatoria further amplifies this sentiment too.
Last week there was a public outcry demanding that she can visit detained opposition leader Vice President Dr Riek Machar in his house, revealing a growing desire among the populace for genuine reconciliation.
Many believe that "her efforts to bridge divides must include addressing the concerns of all political factions, particularly those who have been sidelined," as she could be a person who can deepen the ties.
Her peace tour, both outside and within Juba, is being heralded as a step towards blessing and reconciliation among youths, elders and women who have suffered for too long.
South Sudanese people yearn for more than just promises; they seek tangible steps that demonstrate a commitment to restoring harmony in a fractured nation as well as could pave the way for lasting peace amid ongoing chaos.
Adut Salva Kiir's role is critical in transforming hope into reality, but only if she listens to the voices of all South Sudanese citizens, including those currently in opposition.
May God bless South Sudan, May God bring Peace!
The opinion expressed in this article is sole author's personal views and can be reached via email [email protected]