A recent opinion piece by Dr. Sunday de John, Chairman of the South Sudan United Front-Progressive, has criticized a group of individuals seeking intervention from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to pressure the government into forming a unity government. De John described these individuals as "hyenas" trying to stage an attack to gain power and resources. He argued that their claims of the country's collapse without their participation in the government are shortsighted and self-serving.
According to de John, the group, which includes former officials, claims that President Salva Kiir's decision to dissolve the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) was risky and lacks legitimacy. However, de John countered that these assertions are driven by a desire for sympathy and validation from regional organizations, rather than a genuine intention to benefit the citizens. He also questioned the legitimacy of those making these claims, pointing out that they have benefited from their past involvement in the government.
De John further argued that anyone wishing to participate in the government should engage in the upcoming elections, rather than seeking to hold the country hostage with an oversized government and nearly a decade of violence. He accused the group of relying on external support, including from the TROIKA and IGAD, to perpetuate their interests, which he described as an attempt to exploit the country further.
The author also criticized the group's tactics, describing them as transparent and driven by self-interest rather than a desire to correct past wrongs. He pointed out that the dialogue they sought was offered, but they ignored or opposed it, rendering the agreement unattainable. De John concluded that President Salva Kiir should lead the country without yielding to negative agitation and that the caretaker government, along with the upcoming elections, is the best course of action.
De John emphasized that President Salva Kiir, who led the liberation struggle and championed the independence of South Sudan, has as much legitimacy as any opposition group or leader. He accused the group of being thieves who feel comfortable only when profiting and threatened to set South Sudan ablaze when they do not attain leadership. De John also noted that many of those making noise are not even citizens, residing in their original homelands and enjoying life in other countries.
The author concluded by stating that he has made a unilateral decision to stand alongside President Salva Kiir Mayardit, despite having fought against him in the past. He accused the group of stealing the nation's wealth and using it to fuel bloodshed, and expressed his support for the president's decisions, which he believes may provide the solutions the country needs.
Dr. Sunday de John holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from the University of Nairobi. His opinion piece was published by Radio Tamazuj, a South Sudanese media outlet. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the writer, and the veracity of any claims made is the responsibility of the author, not Radio Tamazuj.
Key points
- The author, Dr. Sunday de John, asserts that calls for a unity government based on past agreements are driven by self-interest and a desire for power and resources.
