In a New Year message, the leader of the opposition group, the Real Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (R-SPLM), appealed to citizens to support the Tumaini Initiative, peace talks being mediated by the Government of Kenya between the transitional government in Juba and opposition groups that did not ink the 2018 revitalized peace agreement.
Gen. Pagan Amum, a former Secretary General of the SPLM Party and now the leader of a faction of the South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance (SSOMA) that is participating in the peace talks in Nairobi, called upon South Sudanese to wholeheartedly embrace the core values that unite them as a resilient nation, steadfast in the hope for a brighter future in the New Year.
“In the New Year, I urge every citizen of South Sudan to rally behind the Tumaini Initiative and the agreed consensus. This is our pathway to a sustainable peace and good governance in our beloved nation,” he said. “With lasting peace, we will alleviate the suffering of our people and forge a path toward development. Good governance will ensure that every voice is heard and that essential services are delivered efficiently.”
He acknowledged what he referred to as significant issues, such as economic hardship, humanitarian crises, insecurity, and climate change disasters, which he said weigh heavily on the people.
“Yet, our unwavering quest for peace and determination to uplift our motherland remains resolute, despite the challenges posed by those who resist the Tumaini peace within the government,” he said. “The advent of a new year is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, the light of hope remains ever bright. Our shared vision, which unites us as one people with a common goal, is to build a peaceful, just, and prosperous New South Sudan for all. This vision is not just a dream; it is a goal we will achieve together.”
Gen. Amum said 2025 should mark a pivotal turning point for South Sudanese to reject divisions and, instead, stand united as brothers and sisters and compatriots committed to enacting the fundamental changes the nation deserves.
“Together, we will build a South Sudan that we can all take pride in. May this year fill your hearts and homes with peace and love,” he said, and added: “Let us draw inspiration to intensify our struggle and unite in our efforts toward a brighter future a New South Sudan that embodies justice and prosperity, where we ‘sing songs of freedom and joy’.”