In a move that surprised no one except those still clinging to hope in a political class that has repeatedly proven its inability to lead the country to safety, the government led by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) announced an extension of the transitional period for another two years, until February 2027. This decision, despite being justified by claims of “unfinished reforms,” is nothing but a clear indication that the current political project in South Sudan has morally and politically collapsed. It no longer represents the aspirations of the people but instead serves the interests of an entrenched ruling elite.
SPLM: From Liberation Movement to Oppressive Institution
The SPLM, once a legitimate movement fighting against oppression for decades, has today transformed into an entity that contradicts the core principles upon which it was founded. It has become a political machine that perpetuates family and tribal rule, protects networks of vested interests, and delays the implementation of the peace agreement’s provisions, acting as though time is its private property.
The transitional period was supposed to be a platform for political, security, and economic reforms. Instead, it has turned into a farcical performance, with the same empty justifications repeated: “insufficient funding,” “unstable security situation,” and “the country is not ready for elections.” In reality, what is lacking is not resources or time, but political will.
Even more troubling is that the SPLM has not only failed to implement reforms but has systematically worked to obstruct them. The movement knows that holding free elections would mean the end of its grip on power. It is far easier to rule when ballot boxes are indefinitely postponed than to face the people when they have the power to decide their fate.
The Opposition: A Partner in Political Crime
As for the opposition, led by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO), it has proven to be nothing more than a pale shadow of the ruling SPLM. Instead of being a voice for the people, it has become part of the game—negotiating for positions and privileges while ignoring the core issue: the people’s right to self-governance.
The past years have shown that the opposition is more interested in securing its share of the political pie than achieving real reforms. How else can one explain its deafening silence in the face of rampant corruption, the government’s failure to implement security arrangements, and the neglect of the permanent constitution? It is an opposition that champions the slogans of change in public but bargains for survival within the corridors of failure.
The Illusion of Peace: An Agreement Without Soul
The Revitalized Peace Agreement, once a glimmer of hope, has now become nothing more than a document used as a cover to extend power rather than a roadmap to democracy. Security arrangements remain frozen, the unified forces are incomplete, and the constitutional process is stalled in office drawers, while the political elite continues to exchange blame and shirk responsibility.
The question here is: if these reforms were not implemented in four years, why would anyone believe that two more years will make a difference? The answer is simple: nothing will change because those in power have no interest in change. The current state of affairs serves their interests, and the extension grants them more time to tighten their grip on the state.
The People: The True Victim and the Forgotten Key
Amid this political farce, the people remain the true victims. Ordinary citizens, suffering from poverty, unemployment, and a lack of basic services, no longer see the government or opposition as anything but two sides of the same coin. Political rhetoric has shifted from promises of peace and prosperity to endless justifications for failure, while the elites continue to enjoy privileges at the expense of the people’s suffering.
Yet, the people are also the forgotten key in this equation. Unless citizens realize that the country’s fate cannot remain hostage to a group of failed politicians, the cycle of extension and procrastination will continue indefinitely. It is time to send a clear message: enough empty promises, enough disregard for the country’s future, and enough playing with the fate of future generations.
Conclusion: Continued Failure or a Popular Awakening?
Extending the transitional period is not just an administrative measure but a glaring indication that the entire political class—government and opposition alike—has chosen power over democracy. The hope for change now rests not with political actors but with the people’s awareness and their ability to demand their rights and reject being held hostage to futile political theatrics.
If popular silence persists, 2027 will arrive with yet another extension—perhaps for another decade. But if the people decide to say “no” clearly and resolutely, the wheels of genuine change may finally start turning. After all, no power can withstand the will of the people when they decide to reclaim their destiny.
The author, Mahmoud Akot, is a South Sudanese political activist based in France. He can be reached via email: mahmoudakot@gmail.com.
The views expressed in ‘opinion’ articles published by Radio Tamazuj are solely those of the writer. The veracity of any claims made is the responsibility of the author, not Radio Tamazuj.