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Why single out Machar as good leader? Tribal politics has no place Hi Moses, Your thesis looks amazing. If you think the current leadership of GoSS is not doing enough, why do you only single Dr. Riek Machar to be the only good leader within the system? Let me hope you are not leading us into this tribal politics which does not hold any place in the modern times. I thought you are matured! M. James, Juba

Diaspora don't understand development I am a Southern Sudanese who stayed in Juba since 2005, shortly after the signing of the CPA. Juba was a small town with few Arab traders and the roads were used by animals and a few bicycle riders. But when the SPLM leaders came in, they started opening Juba-Yei road that connects South Sudan to Uganda and South Sudan started to change since then. What I want to say is that those who talk about lack of development in South Sudan are those who do not stay here but either in Britain, America, Australia, Canada etc. This is because they don't see for themselves the changes in South Sudan and when they come here they compare South Sudan to where they come from.

Guys, the development Salva's Government brought in South Sudan is more than what we got from the other regimes since the independence of the Sudan. You guys need to understand that DEVELOPMENT is a process and there are numerous challenges that South Sudan has. Why don't we join hands and support Salva instead of making that noise that will make those South Sudanese who always struggle for power to take it as a chance for them. Let us support our leaders instead of ringing bells for power struggle. Lado Boyo Lotamara, Sudan

Kiir will lose supporters I’m not at all surprised to see the outgoing president El Bashir campaigning in Jonglei State, since it was just last week when his former pro-Arab militia leader, Riak Machar, accompanied GoSS president (Salva Kiir) to Bor town in his campaigning. Nor am I surprised either why do our patriotic people turned out to El Bashir’s campaign than to president Kiir who closured himself with genocidal traitor as his optional vice president. President Kiir should not waited for someone else to gossip in his ear that walking with traitor Riak Machar to other States will cut down at his supporters. He president Kiir knows very well that the tribalism in Southern Sudan is at its peak because the founder of it, traitor Riak Machar, is second to him in his government. People of Southern Sudan will not choose to live in harmony regardless to what he's thinking since he's adoring militia leader, Riak Machar, as his chosen vice if SPLM and him got elected again. John Junub, UK

Political struggle in Bentiu The disruption of incumbent president Kiir Mayardit's political rally by the supporters of Dr. Lam Akol and supporters said to be loyal to the independent candidate, Angelina Teny, shows clearly that elections in the South shall not be violence free if a lot of care is not taken by the electorate who chant slogans in support of their leaders. I could not believe Lam 's supporters to be doing that when he is demanding for secure ground for the political campaign yet he is using his followers underground to go ahead and humiliate our leader and a hero. Dr. Lam is a double agent. Following Lam is like following Arabs and that means no to the self-determination which all the Southerners have been waiting for throughout their life time. It's not yet another time to allow NCP divide us apart. Michael Mathiang, Cairo

Nuers also killed by Dinka Dear Mr. Mawut Guarak, you are one of the rare breeds our people of South Sudan need today. Your article not only exposed the deep flawed mindset some of us have today in South Sudan, but also challenges our leaders to the deepest core of our problems possible. To be honest with you, we the Nuers think that we were the first victims in South Sudan when the first battalions of SPLA were deployed to wipe out entire villages of Eastern Jikany Nuer in early 1980s. The same thing happened in 1991 when most of the Nuer SPLA-Torit Faction officers were murdered in cold blood by their Dinka brothers in Bahr El Ghazal and Equatoria.

The early SPLA battalions were made up of mostly Nuers and it was William Nyuon Bany, a Nuer, and Kerbino Kwuanyin Bol, a Dinka, who attacked and wiped out entire Eastern Jikany Nuer villages. This might make a difference between 1991 killings of Dinka Bor by SPLA-Nasir Faction because it was made up of mostly Nuers who were longing for a revenge of SPLA killings of Nuer civilians in early 1980s. To us Nuers, blaming Dr Riek Machar is nothing more than a pure Dinka Bor hatred toward a South Sudanese leader who happens to be a Nuer. Embarrassing him in Dinka Bor towns and villages will amount to a new declaration of a new public relations warfare in which Nuer towns and villages will respond to Dinka national leaders in kind and will do the same to them too.

We all need to forget the past and move on, or else we will be tangled in a nasty loop where neither Nuer nor Dinka will win, but the Arabs. Rambang, South Sudan

Why should Dr. Riek apologize? My brother Mawut, whoever said that Dr. Riek should first apologize to Dinka Bor is a big liar. Why should Riek apologize? Who in Southern Sudan has not lost a relative in the civil war? You may not know the realities during the war and to update you, the fighting was between Nasir faction and Torit faction. Please note that the Late Arok Thon was a prominent member of Riek's faction. If you still write to condemn Dr. Riek on Bor attack, how do you prove your intellectuality by claiming that you are writing? Nasir faction was manned by senior officers from Dinka Bor. Ask some of your relatives, they will tell you. The fact that you lost your relatives is regrettable but it is their fate and those are aftermaths of any war. Dr. Riek is a VP and must be respected just like Gen. Salva. The difference between the two is constitutionally very slight. Dr. Riek can address Bor citizens everywhere. If you are in touch with the prevailing situation, many of the Nuer in Jonglei rally behind Kuol Manyang but how many Nuer were executed by him in Nimule in 90's? That was why William Nyuon was bitter after his coming back from Abuja. Please, just focus on writing your book or else it will be full of errors. The second thing I would like to tell you is that after the CPA, all bitterness people were holding against themselves were put aside and you need to understand that. Peter Pal Chol, Sudan

Dr. Riek Political Future Lies Elsewhere Not with Kiir: People who follow the SPLM politics have no doubt that Kiir's statement about choosing Riek as his running mate is nothing more than a political gimmick meant to buy the votes of some sections of Southern community disgruntled with Kiir's style of leadership. Salva had a few weeks ago published a long list of his election campaign team. The only person conspicuously absent in the list is none other than Dr Riek Machar, the supposedly running mate! How can a running mate have no role in the election campaign?
 
The truth is that there is no provision for a running mate in the Interim Constitution of Southern Sudan. The elected President is free to appoint a Vice President in the same way he appoints Ministers of GOSS. So, there is nothing that binds Salva to appoint Riek as VP if he ever wins. The clique close to Salva who always carry the day are already discounting this promise and are dead sure that if Salva wins, James Wani is their choice.
 
It is also true that Riek will fail to deliver the votes he is expected to deliver because Kiir, by his commissions and omissions, made himself unsellable to those communities. When that happens, it will be used as an excuse by Kiir and Co to wriggle out of the promise if he chances to win.
 
I think people should not be duped to take this promise seriously. Riek's future lies elsewhere, not with Kiir. He is intelligent enough to know this fact. Dr. James Okuk

All bets on race to GOSS To Aburoma Thiik, Sudan and Kuol Majak, Canada: Just to remain you all that the person who put us in a hole should not be the one to dig us out. Pres. Salva Kiir has put us in a hole during 5 years of the CPA. After the greatest achievement in bush for decades led Dr John Garang, it’s very difficult to see any stewardship of the country.
Dr Lam will provide the Southerner electorate with enough choice. In other words, the middle ground in politics is where most votes lie, however, the concept of the middle ground is a construction of the political classes, reinforced by the media and others, to an apolitical electorate as representing reason and moderation. Those who do not adhere to this middle ground are referred to in pejorative terms such as extremist. Thus, it is suggested anyone who supports the extremist is socially aberrant in character, therefore, little wonder, then that the public continues to vote largely for the moderate party.
As you or anyone notices that we have seen over the past five years the SPLM government has failed to run the country to the level anyone would expect. I suggest that people should be given the option to give a vote to confidence in the political party such as SPLM-DC, the one on top in their agenda is Peace and Development, security. God bless south Sudanese nation. And long live SPLM-DC. Akic Adwok Lwaldeng, Sudan

SPLM The Most Popular in Rumbek In reply to Majok Aker Ayai letter dated 11th March 2010 entitled SPLM Unpopular in Rumbek.
Brother Maker, I'd like to bring to your attention that out of all Ten States of the South Sudan, Lakes- Rumbek- is the top stronghold of all the states. Your argument on the subject matter to me is not convincing. SPLM is the most popular party in Lakes state for very many reasons known to you.  Dr. Garang because of the faithfulness of Lakes State in SPLM chose it as an administrative town, during the liberation struggle there as uncountable numbers of the sons and daughters sacrificed themselves for the mission and vision of the SPLM.
However, the turnout was generated by falsified information by Radio Rumbek FM 98 and the Announcement Officers of the so-called NCP who fooled the general public that Cde. Salva Kiir was accompanying Bashir to Rumbek. This however made the public to turn out in a number that had not reached 2000 which you have tripled.
If you have really attended that address by Bashir you would have believed that every citizen in Rumbek is for SPLM because they did not show any support or morale. While the rally was continuing SPLM Supporters stormed into SPLM State Secretariat angrily with posters of comrade Kiir and demanded to know where Cde. Kiir was as it was only Bashir that they saw. These SPLM Strong supporters handed over 158 T-Shirts and Caps that they were given to SPLM Office.
Politically it is very good to know what your opponent says about in order to defeat him. I personally admit what Abraham Lincoln says that, "To overcome an enemy is to be a friend.” To me their turnout is perfect for they have listened to a liar and the man who killed their sons, daughters, brothers, nephews, nieces, mothers, father and the man who made us remain illiterate as such. The man who wants to take away our land and make us go back to slavery. Now we in the SPLM are able to analyze his program. Dennis Marial Mourwel, Rumbek

SPLM unpopular in Rumbek: Many thanks to the people of Rumbek for welcoming Bashir as their president, the number of people who had turned out yesterday to welcome Bashir were estimated at 4700,  never has Rumbek welcomed any SPLM Leadership like that, especially after Dr John Garang died. This is a real sign that SPLM/A is loosing a lot of popularity from its people. Rumbek was the heart of SPLM/A during 1980's -2004 of war but now seems to be the first state to move away faster from SPLM policies. The question is why those people turned out to see their president? Is it because of recent fighting between SPLA and Civilians and poor government? Maybe due to rush promise of SPLM plus unique corruption that's never recorded in the history of the world. GOSS corrupted $8 Billion dollars in five years and left people of Rumbek without dollars yet they were the fighters of SPLA during the war. Agaar, Gok Ciech, Atuot, Aliap seem to favor NCP rather than SPLM, this is a true thing that I have seem yesterday here in Rumbek. Majok Aker Ayai, Rumbek

Response to Mr Bona Malual’s empty rhetoric. I think it is Bona Malual’s sycophancy that always urges him to speak publicly on issues that impaired South Sudan. It can be evidenced from the history what he has done to the South since 1960s to late 70s when he was a minister in Government dominated by the Northern elements. Malual stated clearly in 1998 SPLA/M update/Gazette that he is not a warrior and a negotiator but he is a superb people’s manager. This literally means that he can govern the South if it is liberated. Malual thinks that to be in the frontline qualifies one to be regarded as a warrior. He regarded our late Dr. John Garang as a warrior that's why he stated that way. This means he can be the president of South Sudan if peace is finally achieved. My question to our stooge Malual, the peace is finally achieved, why? Can’t you gather your strength and come to the south to be a people’s manager as you had claimed in 1990s when you were in Britain?

Malual knows the loopholes of the elements in the north as  he has claimed in his article and he still outwardly throw his full support. Oh! I think there is more worse than good to come. Junubin wouldn’t this time again get hoodwinked by the same elements who had betrayed the South before.  If it is not because of personal gains, how could Malual make a statement like "I am handing over to you Bashir to vote him in power as leader of the Republic of Sudan — if you let him loose the election then you will automatically loose the CPA," in Rumbek as if re-electing El Bashier constitutes what Southerners need in this election. It’s not mentioned anywhere in any form in CPA that re-electing Hassan EL Bashier is a pre-requisite to 2011 referendum. This is the time for stooges and traitors to take off their hands of the affairs of the South. South Sudanese have known their contributions to the struggle in Sudan. However, the best price they will reap is the price of egocentrism. Jack Deng - Australia.

George Athor Deng: the most inexperienced candidate for Governorship in Jonglei The pledge for democratic transformation is the slogan that has given opportunities to all the Sudanese including the incapable and inexperienced citizens to seize public offices in their respective states. I was so surprised and mesmerized that a Major General like George Athor Deng is on board asking the people of Jonglei to elect him to the highest office of the state. Unfortunately, I think Jonglei citizens are not ready to elect someone who will be on-the-job training. Major Gen. Deng has been deceived by the military that has been delivering during the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) era.
The fact remains that the military commanders give orders without opportunities for people’s voice to be consulted. When he was the commander, Major Gen. Deng has not been faithful to his comrades; he galvanized much resource to himself.  Major Gen. Deng has never held a civilian position except the military one. This fact makes him to be the most inexperienced person to be elected to the office of governor.
Major Gen. Deng is a corrupted and divisive fellow. If Major Gen. Deng is elected to Jonglei assembly as governor, the state will undergo extreme chaos and tribal clashes will increase. Major Gen. Deng failed to disarm the communities of Jonglei when he was given that opportunity to retrieve guns, which resulted into death of many people at Lou-Nuer and SPLA side. This incidence happened because of his poor planning. Major Gen. Deng was unable to unite his county, instead he was off to divide the county. If he was a real leader, he should have united the county than neglecting other community members. I think a leader who has the sober diplomacy and passion about good governance deserves an opportunity to lead Jonglei. Vividly, Mr. Kuol Manyang has shown that courteous leadership and sober diplomacy to the communities of Jonglei state.  
The fact is that Kuol Manyang has brought down corruption and Kuol will listen to people, while Major Gen. Deng will not listen to people. Major Gen. Deng wants to buy time so that he can implement his own hidden agenda. It will be the greatest mistake if Major Gen. Deng is elected to the state Assembly as Governor. Under Major Gen. Deng governorship the state will be rocked again by corruption, insecurities and disagreement over rule ship.
These evidence prove that major Gen. Deng is the most inexperienced person to hold such highest office. He's fit to rule military personnel who only need commands and orders.  
I appeal to my fellow Jonglei citizens to elect Mr. Kuol Manyang in order to complete the excellent plans he has for the state. Kuol Manyang is going to implement development, rule of law and eliminate corruption as he won an award for it. Thanks, Ezekiel Akurdit, Canada

No trust for President Omer El Beshir! President Beshir is not a person to be trusted at all altogether at this point! What his candidacy agent Mr. Bona Malwal said is not true. His candidate President Omer El Beshir have signed before the peaces agreements before CPA. He signed the peace with Dr. Riak Machar in Khartoum known as "KHARTOUM PEACE FROM WITHIN in 1998".Again with Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin in Fashoda in Malakal. He promised to them Self- Determination for the South the same like he's now promised in 2011.He hasn't implemented them yet until today! What is different between those two peaces accords he signed with them and with CPA in 2005? He is a liar and hypocrite human being! I believe action! Not deeds in words! Chief Abiko, USA

Showing leadership I salute you Madam Awut Deng for the initiative of reform and I hope all GOSS leaders to do the same thing, because it's the leaders duties and responsibilities. A child does not do what you are telling him to do, children do what you do. It is the same thing that it will be hardly difficult to any   leader to define himself or herself that he/she is against corruption, unless they do/show what they want people to. Thank You. Gisma (Angeth) Mou Mou, Sweden

Yes from Elections to Referendum and Nothing Less: Thanks to Salva Kiir Mayardit for the strong statement to IGAD leaders without any single fear. I wrote in my latest article in this website last week that "No to the bad talks of postponement of elections because this shall affect the schedule of referendum for self-determination in January 2011 as the CPA and Interim constitution have stated it clearly that the referendum shall be managed by an elected government. If SPLM leaders really intend to change their hearts and join the champions of self-determination for the South, let them not fear elections in April 2010 and let them categorically reject any attempt (nationally, regionally or internationally) to postpone it. Also it is high time to fill the abandoned post and responsibilities of the 1st Vice President of the republic of the Sudan as Kiir left vacant his duties in Gordon Palace in Khartoum for no justifiable reasons." Kiir also should talk clearly and without any fear that there should never be any postponement of April 2010 elections. We need those elections to legitimize the referendum in January 2011. No short cut. Even if Kiir is to be out of power after April elections for the sake of peaceful referendum for independence of South Sudan, let it be because the interest of South Sudan should be considered greatest than any individual lust for power. This is it. No other way. Dr. James Okuk.

I trust SPLM candidate Thanks Miyar, you have really started what South Sudanese expect from their candidate. We need a candidate who will complete the job (CPA). We do not expect a leader who will take us back to the bush. That is the only reason, I trust that SPLM Candidate will take us to independent or united Sudan than SPLM-DC. SPLM-DC objectives are not well defined and it is not trusted by many southerners. Thanks God, Dr. Akol betrayed himself to southerners when he referred to independence of South Sudan as a suicide. His remark in Yambio will cost him votes in the next election. Kuol Majak, Canada

Dinka are the ones marginalized I think sometimes is good to be sensible and reasonable than unnecessarily complaining. First of all, if observe carefully about who're running the Regional Cooperation Ministry, you will find that it's run by Nuer tribe, something you forced me to mention although I'm not interested in talk of tribal position. Anyway, I'm not going to mention the missions headed by our NUER brothers, you shall find for yourselves. However, if we really talk sense about tribes as you push me to, the tribe that has been marginalized is Dinka due the fact that you continue to blackmail them by your trick of tribalism card. Victor Makur, South Africa

Make compromise for Wanglei Brother Chol Padiet, first receive my condolence. It wasn't easy for me to inhale a breath when I heard Bul Kuer Bul with the rest died as a result of fight in Wanglei. It is a tragedy that has affected the whole Twich East.
Dear brothers of Ayuel, take the slogan that say 'God gives and takes' and 'leave it as death' as Dinka say.
I still encourage you to be brave and keep the unity of Wanglei first regardless. Such things happen -come and go but people still remain confined in a designated area. Wanglei is for three of you and no one is going to hold on to it as his, no matter what and even with the influence who-it will never happen.
You put the project of Dr. Lual clear and I guess that is how it is but Dacuek people get advantage of having access to where those equipments are at the time of the fight. However, I think that was not the intention of Dr. Lual as you put it. I urge all of you to make a compromise on a rationale of unity of Wanglei and leave the act and the actors (caused harm to victims) be judged by Twich East and legal authority.

We are all sorry and let our people know that this should not be retaliated, should you get a chance to contact them (People back home) on the phone. Michael Deng Wal, Australia

Justice for murdered chief It is true Deng Mador Koch, many thanks to you for the way you have explained correctly the life of late Jokdit Dau. I even did not know much about his life and struggle before you forwarded this message, but I did hear about his name since I was a small boy. I was in Uganda when he was killed. It was bad news as the death of Dr John Garang to many loving people of greater Lakes state who are living in Uganda. I am also very happy with the way you have described the deaths of his sons who have died for the cause of liberation for the Sudan, they are our heroes. No matter what, the truth will come out about his death, whether Bol Madut or Kongor the commissioner of Cuibet County, one of them must accept the responsibility of his death and has to be punished if justice works in South Sudan. Thanks you, Matur Ater Majing, Australia

Don't be a noise-maker I hereby challenge my brother CHOL PAJIETH BUL by saying that Dr. Deng  has done nothing wrong but trying to make to Sudan a better place for peace and prosperity. We understand that in our section of DINKA we tend to criticize good objective made by people not knowing that they are of benefits to the community. Do you know the development that he has brought to the county? Don't be a noise-maker, you are opposing him because the communities fought among themselves. Behave like an educated fellow. Acuel Lual, Uganda

South Sudan or SPLM Flag? Regardless of whatever the outcome of this elections in Sudan, history is in the making. There has no been time in the past since Al Zhari came to power in 1953 were politicians walked to the countryside talking to people about their plans. What had happened, although termed as elections, were pure referenda where likes of Nimeiri ran against nobody else.

The SPLM and the MIGHTY army SPLA deserves applaud and appreciation from all Sudanese everywhere on earth regardless of political affiliation.

First, I am always proud to reveal what I believe; I am a proud SPLM supporter and freedom fighter who served in the SPLA since I was only ten years of age. I did and continue to do what I'm supposed to. With that said, I am a little bit troubled by some policies applied during these political campaigns.

The current flag we have started as SPLM flag with a RED STAR on it before the STAR changed to YELLOW in late 1990--the color of the star officially appeared in 1991. But since then, the flag has not only been a symbol of the SPLM but that of the New Sudan and South Sudan in particular. That's why it hangs today in government offices in South Sudan, including the parliament. Although I am a proud member of the SPLM, I wear my pin not as SPLM symbol but that of our nation to-be.

I may be mistaken. But if not, how has the power to ban any citizen or politician from using it? Anybody, including the NCP has the right to wave South Sudan flags during political rallies in South Sudan. As member of the SPLM and one that love freedom, I am embarrassed and disappointed by the Movement's ban of NATIONAL FLAG at Col. Bakasorro's rally in Western Equatoria State.

Unless the SPLM PB intends to individually owns the FLAG and lower it from National Parliament (I don't care of what is in Khartoum; South Sudan is my nation with Juba as its capital) or a shame!!! Mawut Guarak, USA

No independent candidate in SPLM George Athor is taking too much political risk, being young does not mean you will do the job the right way. I don't see any important message in his campaign March 1, 2010 in Bor. He is younger than Kuol but that doesn't mean his physical energy will make things better in Jongelie, we need someone with the right judgment to lead. I'm satisfied with the way Kuol handles things in Jongelie accept security issue but I don't blame him because there used to be a policy from GOSS that says, "south Sudan army will not intervene in tribal conflicts." This policy and people who make it are responsible for the death of more than thousand civilians in Jongelie not Kuol Manyang. If George Athor needs to win votes he should avoid blaming Kuol for security failures.

George had no record of successful civil administration, he performed well in the battlefield like many young SPLA commanders during the war and that's it. Can anyone tell me what he has accomplished in civil sector, what is his strategy to improve security?

It is unbelievable for George Athor to be at odds with his party and pretend to be the one who understands the principle of democracy than others. What is an independent candidate within the SPLM party? That is nonsense. There must be no other candidate apart from one chosen by the party whether by default or not. A Candidate must leave the party and establish his his/her own requirements to qualify in the electoral commission. Lual B Nyuon Australia

The Land between Ayual and Dachuek Sometimes it makes a lot of sense to keep your mouth shut especially when bones have been broken. My condolences go to those who lost family members to the unseen enemy- “self-satisfaction.” I have been following this issue since the day it occurred for the matter of learning before I could talk but it seems no single author is feeding the general public with anything positive; all that fly around are the accusations without solutions, stories that could not be verified and attacking of authorities without proofs. As far I know from where I come from, when a land is disputed; only the elders who have the knowledge of that land would be consulted but in this situation the intellectuals are being consulted as if they have studied any piece of land in that area.

The petition written by the Ayual Community is not solving anything, instead; it is adding pressure to the situation by smearing other people to have been involved in the killing of the individuals. It would be better to keep it off the internet and let the authorities deal with those involved without fear of intimidation. As some have suggested that judges and others had something to do with taking money or an unofficial visitation with the accused Lual Achuek, I would say it is immature at this time and if any evidence exists; this is where other authorities beside the locals should be informed of such before it is destroyed.

Dr. Lual Achuek, to my understanding, isn't only working to develop his own clan but as far knowledge is concerned, he's trying his best to bring up the entire Twic Community since they've been crying of being underdeveloped during the previous administrations. I'd give the man a chance to let him work without fear of jeopardizing his own life. Don't take me wrong, everywhere I go and hear people talking about development in the Bor area, I always hear Twic talking about Bor south being developed by Abel Alier during his time. Mr. Abel had done nothing to the drilling of the wells and taps in Bor south but somebody like Lual Achuek today; who has the desire and capabilities of helping his community hooked up with local contractors. Now the advantage is at the hands of Twic East to play the role as usual but due to such obstacles, Mr. Achuek may change his mind and develop his own self since nothing has come out of this community without accusing one another. It was Lual-Ajokbil some years ago but thanks God something has come up (Gadiang).

Due to the kind of words used, some may judge me on one thing or another and having sided with one clan; but I am far from these. While it does not bother to be finger-pointed, these two respected communities need to solve their differences without the interventions of the government. I have heard of the worst cases where the government appointed its judges to be the ones solving local issues which ended up in a mess. Not every community may have wise elders at this time but the other side should be honest in telling the truths or have the neighboring clans involved should they've any solutions concerning the matter. Thon Gai Thiong, SCHWEINFURT, GERMANY

Remembering the paramount chief The unexpected death of this great paramount chief Jok Kachuol is very sad indeed. My God rest our great paramount chief safely and we will remember him for the care that he gave us during hard days and nights. When I read the article of brother about this chief Jongdit, I was about to cry because of this ambition and the roles of a wise and caring leader.
I really don't know why God could not keep for long people who can take people to the brighter lights instead of them to die unexpectedly like this.
My brother, your article is inspiring because we Southerners need to know the background of our greater people (Dinka), so that we can remember store them in our memory. These kinds of deaths are now happening in the South especially after the CPA for unnecessary killing. In deed, people our hope are getting lost for nothing, no reasonable cause because of self interest of tribal while our common enemy is still waiting for us. I know we Dinka (no hiding about this) are dying frequently than the the way we used to because we have devoted our mind in SPLA, but the enemy of SPLA is the one killing us intentionally unnoticeably. God knows our offers and the offer of our greater Chief who just died like that. And may God bless his families and relatives, and others who just died for no cause. Thanks, Bol D. Bol, USA/ Kongor-Twic East

Reply Comment to Chol Pajieth Bul, "The genocide"
I am a very proud south Sudanese man of Jonglei, however to read an article like the one you wrote on the net about tribal conflict in your home town of Wangulei. I think it's not right for the sub tribes or tribes to fight each other. After all, the land would eventually be controlled by the state government such Jonglei in the near future development. so I don't personally think that it is right for the civilians to fight one other. And as you called the conflict between Dachuek and Ayual a genocide, I think it was an inappropriate word. In addition to that, calling on the SPLM secretary and Governor isn't the solution either. N.A. Mabok, Australia

and issues in South I quote from Moeletsi Mbeki’s Book, "Architects Of Poverty:" "Taking into consideration the broader sub-Saharan region, which is less industrialized, in the first instance it is necessary for peasants who constitute the core of the private sector to become the real owners of their primary asset- Land. Until this happens there will be no change in the trend towards rampant deforestation and accelerating desertification. In order to reverse this process, freehold land tenure must be introduced and the so-called communal land tenure system, which is in reality state land ownership, must be abolished." K. Kong, Uganda

Be fair to Bari on land issue Land issues are very serious and should be dealt with maximum wisdom any one has, including GOSS, State governments and local communities.
People of South Sudan have well understood the value of land after CPA, and they are right in that, because land is what we were fighting for.
Due to the nature of my work, it happened that I was able to tour most of South Sudan States in the last 5 years, and found that land issues are escalating and and people are very critical in most of our big cities and towns.
May be the case is more pronounced in Juba, and in my opinion, this is not because Bari people are Kokorist or they hate Nilotics, but because Juba is in the limelight as a capital city of GOSS, and Juba has/is receiving more southerners and non-southerners from all the corners of earth including Diaspora returnees.
Even in my home town, people are very skeptical on land, yet not many outsiders have come back to my home town.
I totally agree with Dr. Atem Nathan who said that land grabbers are to be stopped in Juba and else where within South Sudan. Certain issues of land should be separated completely from the so called KOKORA, because the later is of political agenda and background, of which most of our generation are/were not party to it, while the other one is of legal  background.
I don't agree with those calling for transfer of GOSS Capital to any where else apart from Juba because, to my best  knowledge, there is no existence of a no-man's land in Southern Sudan, which means that the problem will never be solved by transferring the Capital. Instead, I believe that internal displacement should be discouraged (IDPs), and communities should be encouraged to developed their ancestral lands.
This doesn't means that non-Bari should not come to Juba? Of course government officials, investors, traders, students etc will be coming, but of course they will be living in designated areas for that purposes.
Soldiers should live in Barracks, which they leave after transfer.
We should be fair to Bari community and consider positively their fears of land occupation...and put ourselves in their place before we judge them negatively.
No one can claim that Juba is not developing, but this development shouldn't compromise the historical and traditional rights of Bari communities, and their concerns for the future of their coming generations, this give another challenge to Bari elites, and should create a real debate among them on how best  do they think  Juba can develop without major risks to their rights, and without giving room to shortsighted southerners who want to project Bari as a non-appreciating community.
I advocate for developmental projects, such as roads, factories, recreational areas and governments institutions to be erected without any delay, but housing should be closely monitored, because land grabbing is very provocative anywhere. Dr.Ajack Makor - Juba    

To Mr. Lupai, what's wrong with Dr.Lam? The article of Mr. Lupai is the most contradictory peace of writing I have read these days. While he agrees with Dr. Lam about the mismanagement of the affairs in the south, yet he distrusts him not to be the president of GOSS. Five years is enough in office to do some good work. What is it that Salva has to deliver after dehumanizing the southern people? The money squandered is not enough to convince Lupai of bad governance? People dying in tribal fighting daily are not enough to convince Lupai? Lands being grabbed can not convince Lupai?
SPLM-DC is going to lead you clean to independence. Dr. Lam was the one who brought the Self-Determination into the political vocabulary of Sudanese politics since 1992 in Frankfurt.
What you don't seem to grasp is if the independence of the south comes under Salva and not all the southern parties, the domination by Salva's tribe will be insurmountable, only then will slow thinkers realize and begin to defend themselves leading to Somalization.
I'm telling you to vote for, but spare him his right as a citizen and stop killing elephants. Dr. Peter Adwok Ottow, Sudan

Ayual and Dacuek are sister communities To all citizens of Twic East County and particularly Wangulei brothers and sisters. While we are all aware of the fatal incident of the past two weeks, while you are all depressed by the ensued casualties, and while you will still remain brothers and sisters when this undreamed of episode come to pass, I would like to seize this chance to forewarn each of you to refrain from any furtherance of this ill-fated occurrence. 
 
While I know media is becoming a powerful informative tool in our young civilizing communities, it's also worth mentioning here that our indigenous communities have never been big fans of these trouble-fueling monsters called media. I am sure situations such as this had happened before amongst our indigenous communities but were amicably settled in ways far more better than these pathetic modern and so-called democratic courts. 
 
Although it`s still shaky and too early for finger pointing, the people involved and/or the  true perpetrators of this tragic incident are not a distant people (if at tall there are any). And trust me, it will not be too long before you come to realization that "what goes around comes back around".
 
Chol Pajieth Bul, Madit Barach Dau, and Zechariah Manyok Biar among others, you guys know one another from your great grand ancestors.... and while I am convinced you guys can be a solution to this dreadful incident, I am afraid you guys are refueling this dire situation! Here, I am sorry to hear that Dr. Lual Achuek is allegedly accused to have a hand in the incident. Remember you guys are next in line and should the worst becomes of Dr. Achuek, you guys will not be any different unless you guys intercede positively to swiftly reverse the yet-to-come. 
 
And to those of Ajak Garang Deng, Aaron Yong (whatever your full name is), and the rest who rushed to immature conclusions and unwarranted retaliations you will eventually regret when the entire story finally unfolds. What many people fail to understand is  that those who cheer others misfortunes do unknowingly call for themselves doom. Kueer Garang Manyok, Virginia - USA.

 

Security forces in south should ignore neutrality This sounds controversial, yeah? But things on the ground show that there is need for our men to be on the look out for moles who are pretending to be fighting for the people of Southern Sudan. The NCP has armed itself tooth and nail to disrupt people's choice for freedom using proxy elements among us. Dr. Mustaffa Ishmael is heading to Yambio, Dr, Gutbi Al Mahdi to Juba, what do these Arabs want? They stopped SPLM Presidential Candidate big show on National TV, how serious are these men?

 

Chances are high that at this zero hour, an enemy can infiltrate our ranks so that we could fight each other for power leaving our targets to slip away. This is high time to stand with Comrade Salva Kiir Mayardit and his team in the SPLM. I have seen manifestos of other Southern Political Parties and there is nothing new.

 

They have huge credibility problems among our people. They must be shut up, even if that be through rigging. Southern security forces shouldn't therefore sleep and catch up dreams of democracy; we know when to go for democracy. Don' listen to Kiir on neutrality of our forces, our interest by next year is at stake under others. SPLM and its leaders are tested men/women, let's support them.  Isaiah Abraham, Juba

Ayual vs Dacuek incident The incident that had happened some days ago in Twic East county between Ayual and Dachuek is something that had disgraced Twic East in general because we are the most peaceful among many societies. Indeed, no one supports this kind of inter-clan fighting. Their fight is completely very unpleasant because we know our greater enemy.

Anyway, I curious to advise my brother, Madit Barach Dau, to examine his words before exposing to the public. Now, do you think you are making thing better or procreate problems among Twic East county?. For me, the way you accuse Diing Akol Diing for the fight of one payam is not a right decision at all. Yes, Diing Akol is a commissioner and that is why he provides police to calm down the tension and order some Twic East youth to stop the fight. My brother, when the matter involves the dead, then you have to be careful and decide on the word to use. Bol Deng Bol, USA

Let's focus on solution not a problem. As I read some of the articles written about the incident which occurred in Wangulei Payam, most of these articles bear no fruit of peace but only fueling already burning fire.
I would like to urge both sides, that is Ayual and Dachuek communities to refrain from exchanging nasty words, verbal confrontation and false accusation, keeping on doing that will inflict pain to the wounded but yielding nothing constructive at all. Same to other communities whom their individuals might be accused as well, again I urge these communities to be resilient and remain impartial and focus on solution to this issue rather than engage in exchanging accusation and blaming.
For every problem or disaster there's always solution at narrowing each. I hope both sides of the parties and outside will focus on remedying Wangulei Payam and not refueling problem. Thanks. Deng Ajakagutkuei Deng, Australia

We Want Independent South Under A Competent Leader: Eh Jacop K. Lupai!!! You should have better titled your questioned article to include both the SPLM-DC and SPLM rather than the SPLM-DC alone if you meant it to be a comparative article. Alas!!! People of South Sudan (if not God) will punish you soon for having been so busy in tolerating and manufacturing a military dictator (Salava Kiir) who wants to rule civilian in the South without any democratic shame. The SPLM has been tried for five years now but have failed the people in the South. What is the guarantee left to trust the SPLM for handling the independence of South Sudan competently with the bad performance and political deformity that have been shown by Kiir and his cliques? None. Even if Salva Kiir was courageous and firm during the military guerrilla life in the Bush but have never shown any good leadership after the end of war and entrance into democratic peaceful civilian life, he should be jettisoned democratically without any fear so that a right leader can be given a chance to try his best to serve the people in the South with timely services, security, transparency and impartiality, which are very important factors for a viable independent South Sudan. Kiir must go home so that Dr. Lam can come to GoSS for the better South where it will be appropriate to judge him thereafter whether he is a failure like Kiir or not. I am a separatist and would want my new country-in-the-waiting to be led by a right leader like Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin, not a bad leader like Salava Kiir Mayardit with his risky incompetence!!! Anyway, I agree with the conclusion of your article because we are in the same camp of separatists though the sentences you flip flopped ahead of this conclusion are biased and disjointed. Yes; we would love to have an independent South Sudan but not with bad leadership of Salva Kiir. Dr. James Okuk

Commissioner responsible for Ayual massacre My advise to Brother Chol Pajieth. The incidence that occurred in Nyuak Payam Twic East county is regrettable and I convey my personal condolences to the families of the decease and to the entire Ayual community wherever they are. It is very unfortunate incidence to Ayual community and I know it's extremely disheartening and humiliating situation but we must bear with it.

The Principal of writing this comment is that I want to advise my Brother Chol Pajieth you are accusing the wrong person-- Dr. Lual Achuek. The main culprits in these situations are Diing Akol, the so-called Twic Commissioner and the kangaroo court that purportedly tried case, this kangaroo court was working according to the directives or whims of this commissioner, I'm hundred percent sure if Duot Ajang and his team were left without any influence from Diing they would have delivered a balanced ruling which would have satisfied the parties to the dispute but unfortunately the kangaroo court did not mind their integrity and the consequences of their idiot and foolish ruling.

You don't have sufficient evidences to implicate Dr. Achuek Lual in this situation. I want you to direct your accusation to Diing Akol for handling the situation recklessly and with ill ulterior motive. You may think that I have sided with the enemy but let us be truthful and objective, I'm here in Juba, South Sudan. I'm sure of what I'm saying. If there is any proper legal or justice system in the South Sudan, Diing Akol will automatically find himself behind bars. Most of your statements are not true, Chol Pajieth, but hearsay statements. Madit Barach Dau, Juba South Sudan.

Ideology of domination in Juba Thanks Dr. Ambago Ramba for your elaborate clarification. I think the likes of those of Abraham are instigators of tribalism in the south.
Today he is talking of the Bari people and their land. But in Rumbek, for instance, no trader from another state is allowed to acquire business land permanently. You build and rent on top. These are facts on the ground. One Dinka man once time told me that they have another agenda leave alone the liberation of the South. This alone sounds stupid. I am among the Jamus 2 battalion trained from Taharka New Sudan Political School Isokein Eastern Equatoria. I know who fought and who did not fight. All if not most of the tribes fought all the battles with equal strengths and magnitudes. That Dinka friend said they want to see the Bari people after South independence; and that is why 'we all have guns of different sizes and makes,' he asserted. I laughed at him and told him let them try and see.

They want every body to live in Juba. Why? Juba town emerged from a village of our Bari people. The name Juba is derived from the Bari Name Jubek; a Bari who was found living in the area.
As you said, there is need for more decentralization after the independence of the South. We cannot expand Juba town to the extent that the Bari will have nothing to give their sons and daughters yet to be born. I have not heard of a land issue in the South except in Juba.

There are good reasons why the capital is placed in Juba. But if the likes of Abraham feel discontented and want the capital be moved, let them do it. Abraham actually has the ideology that South Sudan is nothing without Dinka. It is fallacious. It is the same ideology that all animals belong to them. This is backwardness. In fact education has not changed the likes of Abraham. Long Live South   Sudanese. Wani George V, Sudan

Take case to the Hague While we the good citizens of Wangulei Payam at Twic East are mourning the lost of lives and possible stalling of the economic activities at our Payam head-quarters, there these who provoked the violence by their reckless, loud-mouthing and shameless assumption of places, ideas and bravery. Among these are the likes of Bul Pajieth Bul who erroneously accused the Twic East commissioner Mr. Diing Akol Diing, Gov. Kuol Manyang Juuk, the county and state police, the 7 judges who ruled on the case including an outstanding Wangulei citizen, Dr. Lual Acuek Lual Deng, and the SPLM/A of standing crossed arms while the Ayual youth were being butchered by the Dacuek youth at the center of Payam Wangulei.  

Mr. Bul Pajieth and others such as Barrach believed that their community was going to provoke the situation and everyone else was going to side with them not to allow them to be disciplined by the Dacuek's youth or anyone whom they provoked due to their erratic behaviors of saying nothing less then everything that crossed their minds and hearts.
People like these are the destroyers of the communities because they have the boldness to lie and expect everyone else to side with their lies.

Mr. Bul Pajieth Bul, if you have the bravery, to accuse the SPLM/A, the Gov., Commissioner, Police, Dr. Lual, why won't you have the same audacity to take your case to the highest courts of South Sudan, Sudan and the international Court of Arbitration in the Hague so that you as the aggrieved, victimized party whom no one side with except yourselves will get your fair share of justice at the Hague? Ajak Garang Deng, USA

Untimely praise for Dr. Lual's land brings death Condolences to the deceased families of Ayual community, Jonglei. I'm much surprised of how people easily messed up things in the name of politicians. It is barely a month when Zechariah Manyok Biar wrote about this same man (Dr. Lual Deng Achuek) as an angel of liberation and development in southern Sudan. The same man, Dr. Lual Achuek. Manyok Biar should always think twice before singing praises for individuals! The land you was praising Lual for has now brought death to innocent lives!!! GOD REST THEIR SOULS IN PEACE. Barach

Is everybody against Ayual community? I did not think it worth my time to ask Chol Pajieth these questions, but I will do it for the sake of curiosity. Why is everybody, including Governor Kuol, Commissioner Ding, Chief Duot Bior, the army and police, Dr. Lual, and Twic East county team against Ayual community? Is Dr. Lual buying all these groups? I am just curious. Zechariah Manyok Biar, USA

Kiir our blessed president For those in the darkness, let's see the light ahead of us that is the Referendum next year, which is a few months away instead of gambling around by insulting each other on baseless grounds of politics. Kiir is our blessed President and even if anyone out there who did not how we suffer during struggle. Thanks to the freedom fighters including the martyrs of war and struggle SPLM. Chol Maker Malual, South Sudan

People should be careful  about SPLM-DC In response to the article that was posted in by Akech Kuol Akech from Egypt University titled as "SPLM-DC can be better after referendum," I really appreciate that idea of that a clever student from Egypt has a far vision. The breakaway SPLM-DC has got no chance now. Perhaps, the breakaway party is training people the lesson of 1991. People should be very careful on that issue. If that breakaway party wins the election, then I will be in Sudan till the end of his period. I am here in Lakes State, Majok Arol Dhieu

All southerners should vote for Dr. Lam The SPLM was given a golden chance to implement good policies and their vision of new Sudan in Southern Sudan within the last Five years, but they choose to enter into internal conflicts within the party wasting their whole time in reshuffles and expelling their comrades from the party. As a result the performance of GOSS was affected totally by the instability in the ruling party.
All these resulted into the formation of the SPLM-DC which is now contesting against the SPLM, which they would have avoided if there was clear policies and respect to the other comrades whom they mistreated.
Dr. Lam Akol is not that bad guy which the GOSS/SPLM media always  criticized of being close to north, but he is that good guy who is much concerned about the South since and he is the engineer of Self-determination of which SPLM is talking about now. The CPA is just a combination of Khartoum Peace Agreement (KPA) and Fashoda Peace Agreement (FPA) which all are engineered by Dr. Lam Akol.
Dr. Lam Akol is familiar with definition and the SPLM is wasting her time in destroying his image. All Southerner should vote for Dr. Lam if we need change in South, otherwise... Jiben Nyikango

Rejecting El Mahdi for presidency Dear Moses Miyen, in fact your criticism article on the former's Sudan president El Sadiq Al Mahadi was indeed bearing prudential and useful ideas based on what had happened and could not be repeated as we are trying to get rid of the olden stuff. It took us a long run to fix them as our political aim is mainly for a democratic system that we all dream to have momentarily. Absolutely, it's our right, we the young people of the "New Sudan" to relinquish this politician so as not to lead into darkened bunker or a rule of Sharia laws again. Monyluak D. Kur, Omaha, USA

SPLM-DC can be better after referendum My dear southerners you need to open your eyes properly. Why? Because is like you are beating around the bush among yourselves. All these parties belong to southerners, as you realize one thing happening here. A big lion and a small lion walking around the bush and you need to sit down and ask yourself those of SPLM-DC, why, when, where and how? All southerners, some might want SPLM-DC and most for the SPLM. We need SPLM  though there is weakness of SPLM as the party. Time shall come whereby every citizen will have the right to go for the party he or she likes best which mean that SPLM-DC can be patient until the election is done. Furthermore that does not mean SPLM-DC is  weak but just because of priority, we know SPLM-DC can do better than SPLM. SPLM- DC would be better after referendum is done but not now. Akech Kuol Akech, Faculty of commerce, Ain Shams University, Cairo

Al Mahdi's nomination silly idea I think the nomination of former Prime Minster Sadiq Al-Madi in fact was a silly idea from UMMA party to nominate him as their presidential candidate. If judicious people are finished in that party then let them take the rest and wait for a younger leader. He can rule Sudan but we need new faces. Makoi Rual, Australia

Any Postponement of Elections is Bad for Referendum: Hello Mr. PhD Candidate Savo Heleta. Please be careful when you cite opinion reports of the crooked international NGOs and foreign pressure group researchers. Be informed that their recommendations are full of bias and you can see how they are only concerned about the incumbent president of the Sudan, Omer Hassan Al Bashir and his NCP as if the  country's destiny belongs to him alone. The keen Sudanese (Southern Sudanese included) should treat such kind of dollar-looters reports with cautions. These foreign groups don’t wish anything good for the Sudan and they always think the Sudanese are incapable of ruling themselves democratically. They are wrong and time will prove them wrong!!! It is very clear that any postponement of elections is a bad news to referendum for the people of Southern Sudan in January 2011. According to the CPA whose binding force shall expire after 2011, the referendum is supposed to be managed by an elected government (with all its legislative and executive branches) both in Khartoum and Juba. Thus, if 2011 comes without an elected government in place, then there shall never be any referendum. This shall never be acceptable as it could generate another war in demand of South Sudan independence. Please give us a break as we move closer to peaceful independence of the South Sudan through referendum that shall be managed by a competent elected leadership and government, especially in the South. Keep your bad recommendation off the right path for reaching our dignified destiny. Dr. James Okuk.

Problems of land ownership all over the south On "Land-Grabbing in Juba: Blaming the Victim" by Alfred Sebit Lokuji,
when an issue as sensitive as land grabbing makes headlines, some people are bound to get it wrong on both sides. I would have loved to respond in a bigger piece but due to time limitation, I will just say a few things.

Let's maintain respect as we discuss things. How many times have you read Dr. Lokuji's articles on this website? If you haven't, please don't rush to condemnation unless you think you are the de facto voice of all Southern Sudanese. The man called Isaiah Abraham, a confessed hater of the Dinka Bor, and now of the Bari, is up to no good. The speed of hatred he is advancing, I am afraid, will leave him hating himself in the end.

The question of Juba as a political and commercial capital of Southern Sudan has been raising emotions so high but I don't see why. Before the signing of the CPA, Ramciel was proposed but there was serious opposition to it. It wasn't also viable to spend the meager resources during the interim period to build a new city from scratch. Since Juba was historically our capital, it remained so. As Dr. Alfred has suggested, let us follow the law. The law can certainly not be unfair to any group of people. Note carefully: It is not only Juba. Problems of land ownership are springing up, pitting State governments to those of counties and payams, in all major towns of Southern Sudan.

This is a new phase in the life of Southern Sudan. So everything is bound to look threatening but we can certainly rise above all the squabbles! Jok Gai, Canada

Land issue is a renewal of Kokora Dear Dr. Alfred, I respectfully disagree with you in the sense that the government shouldn't have any role to play in the land management in South Sudan.
Quite frankly, what's taking place right now, is nothing more than a renewal of " Kokora" which I personally know you did appreciate it. Luk Kuth Dak, USA

Juba is a temporary capital Actually the capital of southern Sudan is not agreed upon yet-- that's what Isaiah Abraham needs to know. Juba is a temporary capital as Garang had said. Therefore, those whose neglect their areas need to think twice. Gabriel Gore, Italy

Land belongs to Bari people I do not see any land problem in Juba, the land belongs to the Bari people and the others have to learn to talk to them to let go, GOSS has to abide by its laws, no threats or name calling will work. Those who are waiting for free land grabs are in for a long wait, land is a resource like the oil, the fish, etc. You can not take it without first talking sense to the owner as to why you should be sharing. Dr. Atem Nathan, Sudan 

Absurdities about Land Dear Laku Modi Tombe! Super article! Well done comrade! Abraham is a very tragic and tribalist element among our docile and loving South Sudanese brothers and sisters! Most disturbingly, Isaiah Abraham in his tribal article alerted that his people came to stay and do anything of evil against  Equatorians! Well, we will see Abraham's absurdities and evil after 2011!!! God bless people of South Sudan, Matthew Lako Konga, USA

To those with anti-SPLM Vision First of all, it must be clearly repeated and reiterated again and over to South Sudanese with anti-SPLM' vision like Dr. Okuk, Dr. Lam, Dr Riek and their followers that the principle of SPLM vision of New Sudan that is based on the unity of Sudan is a mere tactic, method, and strategy of winning local, regional and international support leading ultimately to the separation of South Sudan. The interim period that started in 2005 following the conclusion of Comprehensive Peace Agreement that would be followed by the internationally supervised referendum is a witness to the SPLM vision of New Sudan as a method, tactic and strategy.  This message has been reflected in most presentations offered by late Dr. Garang including his famous presentation he delivered in Dinka language to the group of elderly soldiers called Manyangdit in the early 1990s at Tharpam.

Secondly, I totally disagree with with Dr. Okuk and others who advocate dishonestly that Dr. Lam and Riek are the architects of South Sudan self-determination. The issue of South Sudan self-determination was first voiced during the 1947 Juba Conference particularly by South Sudanese chiefs like Chief Lolik and others. There was neither Dr. Lam nor Dr. Riek presence during the 1947 political conference. Again in the 1960s there existed Southern political organizations like the Southern Front under the leadership of individuals like Abel Alier, Bona Malwal and others. The entire South Sudanese including Dr. Okuk, Dr. Lam, Dr. Riek and their followers are fully aware of the Anya-Anya Movement of 1960s-1970s.

What confuses individuals PhD holders like Dr. Okuk and others might be the fact that the right for the people of South Sudan in those days was not called self-determination. The terminology utilized in those days was plebiscite.

With all these facts in place, I challenge those who air false claims that the idea of self-determination for the people of South Sudan was founded in the 1990s by Riek Machar and Lam Akol. This statement is a big insult to the entire people of South Sudan. Their activities against South Sudan, innocent civilians and the people's movement the SPLM/SPLA are sufficient proofs. Majok Depiir Dut, a student of International Relations and Politics at the University of Queensland in Australia

SPLM can't ignore people's choices SG, Pagan Amum, has reiterated that SPLM party interest should be first, oh really? You seemed to be one of those people who always talk about democratic transformation in the whole Sudan and now you are telling Independent Candidates to put the SPLM interest first? Well, Mr. Secretary General, the most important office in democracy is the office of Citizens. So if there is anything that needed to take place, Citizens must be first enlightened, that way they will work for the interest the party. However, (SPLM Political Bureau) can’t ignore people's choices and yet wanted their support, no. I think you ought to define what the democratic transformation is before you can proudly talk about in the media. Independent Candidates are chosen by Civilians the people whom they are going to represent and not the so called party loyalists whom are chosen by you to represent your interests. Thus, if you want your party SPLM to be likeable then accept THE MASSES CHOICES and remove those who are there but failed to represent them. Choul D, USA

President Kiir versus Dr. Lam Akol Since President Kiir and Dr. Lam Akol are going to contest for the post of the president of the Government of Southern Sudan in the up coming elections, it is fair for columnists like me to compare the two contestants based on what they have been doing for the cause of the nation of the people of Southern Sudan.

To start with it is fair to say that both men were among the few people who started the movement in early 1980s. The major different between the two is that President Kiir has never left the movement not even for single day despite some ups and downs that he experienced in the movement during the course of our struggle. President Kiir has remained a committed member of SPLM/SPLA since establishment up to date unlike Dr. Lam Akol who established more than two political parties in less than ten years. There are no good reasons as to why Dr. Lam left some political parties that he helped established before he could establish his current political party (SPLM-DC). President Kiir has openly differed with our late hero Dr. John Garang in some aspects, but has never acted in away that could betray the cause of the people of Southern Sudan during the course of our struggle.

There is no doubt that the struggle of the marginalized people of Sudan is far from over. This necessitate that we should elect the leaders who are persistent, courageous and who will not waiver regardless of the turbulence that may be here and there.

Although the two men could be working for the cause of the people of Southern Sudan, the truth is that President Kiir is better placed to lead the people of Southern Sudan to the Promised Land given his current and previous records in the movement.

I am not against Dr. Lam Akol, but the truth is that there is need for all the people of Southern Sudan including Dr. Lam Akol to rally behind the leadership of SPLM because all the indicators are consistent with the fact that SPLM is working for the cause of the marginalized people of Sudan. I would like to call upon Dr. Lam Akol to come back and join SPLM so that all of us could defeat the National Congress Party which is preaching nothing but racial and religious discrimination among the innocent people of Sudan. I don’t think that Dr. Lam Akol is racist or has any problems with people of different religious beliefs; therefore NCP is not the right party for Dr. Lam Akol.  Dr. Lam Akol right place is SPLM where he could use his brain positively for the people of Southern Sudan. Dr. Lam Akol is a brilliant person who should come back and rally behind our President Salva Kiir. Dr. Thuou Loi Cingoth, Juba

SPLM and other parties must show the spirit of true democracy Totalitarian and dictator regimes are solely responsible for whatever disaster that faced and continue to face the innocent people of Sudan since independent up to date. Unless dictatorship is completely erased and replaced by true democracy, Sudan and other countries where dictatorship is the order of the day will continue to suffer indefinitely.

The National Congress Party (NCP) which is not national at all is not ready to embrace and adopt true democracy as the system of governing this country for simple reason that with true democracy not even a single member of NCP will come anywhere close to the position of leadership or decision making in this country. Although the NCP has signed the agreement which is calling for democratic transformation in this country, there is no single indication that the party is ready for true democratic transformation now or in the foreseeable future.

It is therefore mandatory for SPLM and all the other political parties which are calling for true democratic transformation in this country to demonstrate in spirit and action that they are calling for democracy in the sense of word. SPLM and other parties should not allow some elements within their parties to exercise anything which is not democratic oriented.

If SPLM and other political parties which are calling for democratic transformation fail to demonstrate the true democratic spirit in word and deeds in the up coming election that will be the end of democratic transformation in Sudan. The innocent people of Sudan have waited for long for that day when dictatorships will the erased once and for all from our thinking, attitudes and actions. SPLM must spearhead the move towards the Democratic Republic of New Sudan where all of us are equal citizens regardless of race, religious or political affiliation. The true forces of democracy led by SPLM must defeat the NCP in true spirit if democracy in the up coming elections. The people of Sudan are fed up with dictators and totalitarian regimes. Dr. Thuou Loi Cingoth, Sudan

No impartiality in AU and UN It's a shame, Ban Ki-moon should say that. How come he will work hard against South Sudan Independence while the same time facilitate the freedom of "South" Korean. There MUST be something utterly wrong at the UN and AU. There isn't impartiality any more from these organs. Peter DeMun, Denmark

Child marriages in South must stop Dear Mapuor, I am writing to thank you for bringing these issues to the public attention. They are serious problems that the GoSS should have dealt with right from the beginning.
-Too many Roads Check-points: Initially, they were set up for security reasons then tax issue was included to generate cash for the community. However, because there is lack of rule of law and order, individuals seized the opportunity to collect money for themselves. The authority is well informed about these malpractices but because those who collect money from poor citizens are hand-in-hand with their seniors, they get away with it. You are right to say citizens are caught up in this affair. Whether people like you and others write about it, it'll not stop right now because things must start from Juba "The Biggest Corruption Cartel".
- Force Marriage: something must be done about it. Our girls are forced to marry men they do not love and in most cases, they marry men older than their fathers. Our girls are also caught up in wealth gathering issue. Our government is doing nothing to stop this phenomenon. Dramatically, people who make laws are the one who break them. I’ve witnessed MPs in Juba getting married with young girls like their own daughters.
I encourage our girls to categorically refuse such marriages. This problem critical and should be dealt with individually as well as collectively.  
Thanks once again for raising them. Santino Fardol, France

Let Deng Alor Keep Off his Mouth From Democratic Progress: It is just a dull and nonsensical statement to say the SPLM will boycott the elections regarding the competition for seats allocated to National Legislative Assembly in Khartoum but will go for elections on the seat allocated to Southern Sudan Legislative Assembly in Juba. April 2010 elections is just one general elections without exception and it is not a one-party contest. If the SPLM choose to boycott any of the seats at any of the level of the government, it is sure that other political parties who shall be contesting will be declared winners to take up the government power at different levels bestowed on them by the people. Thus, with boycott or no boycott, many SPLM wrong leaders shall be losers and that is why they are panicking now as people approach the polling dates. Imagine, some big fishes in the SPLM have already boycotted the elections because they have not or have not been nominated for elections contests. Why are they afraid of people' voice in the ballot boxes? In which constituency is Mr. Deng Alor Kuol contesting in the coming elections so that people could take him seriously as a politician who is hunting for power through people's confidence in the ballot boxes rather than getting chances from Salva Kiir's dictatorial appointments? Is Mr. Alor contesting in Abyei or is he contesting in any constituency of Southern Sudan? Southerners are just tired and disgusted with the Abyei Ministers who run here and there in an attempt to complicate and confuse the desirable democratic politics and procedures. Oh my God when will the referendum date arrive so that we get to know whether the gentlemen of Abyei around Salva Kiir and closer to his dull ears are going to be Southerners or will continue to be Northerners as their status is now!!!! If the justification for the would-be boycott is the census results, then the SPLM leaders would look intelligent if they boycott the whole elections without exceptions since the seat allocated to SSLA in that same elections stems from the results of 2008 National Census. The South should not be an exception refuge for incompetent SPLM leaders with bad decisions. Any boycott at this moment will have its bad consequences on SPLM political life and power survival. The people will just forget about the SPLM as it withers away like the rest of liberation movements in the past that are now enjoying their history status in the dustbin of past events in the Sudan. Dr. James Okuk.

SPLM warns independent candidates My take on the warning,  after a slew of SPLM members have decided to run as independent candidates in upcoming April elections, is arrogance and insensitivity to the will and choices of the people by SPLM political bureau. Those involved in decision process take it for granted that Juba always knows what is best for the people and can override at will the decision of the people at the grass roots without having to pay a price or backlash. Such views are illusory and dictatorial and enforcing them on people has far- reaching consequences. There is always a price to pay by those who fail to connect with and adhere to the will and wishes of the people.
 
In a democracy, power is vested on people through the ballot box. People will vote out any politician from office who doesn't deliver the deliverables, who engages in corrupt practices, or does not provide needed security to protect people and their properties.
What SPLM political bureau did parallels what DNC did when US Senator Joseph Libermann of Connecticut ran for re-election in 2008. DNC chose a fresh candidate over Libermann to run on the Democratic ticket which infuriated Libermann to the extent that he decided to take chance to run as independent. Against all odds Libermann won the election handsomely. I could not disagree more that there is also a disconnect between SPLM political bureau and SPLM branch offices in charge of choosing potential candidates for all contested positions.
 
I suspect that Juba is issuing these threats for fear that its chosen favored candidates will lose to independent candidates during the elections. This fear is baseless because even if the independent candidates win they will be ineffective to get things done without a dominant party like SPLM. They have to caucus with SPLM on issues that matter most to people of South Sudan, such as development, security, good governance, and secession.
 
I suggest that people should be allowed to run for elections on tickets of their own choice. There is no need for threats or intimidation that would create even wider chasm among us as one people. Let the people decide who can best serve them. Nobody and I say nobody should think he/she knows better than the people themselves. Our people through exposure to politics in neighboring African countries are intelligent enough to make informed choices. They don't need outsiders to force on them hand-picked politicians from Juba. The main aim of the election is not SPLM or independent party(ies) that matter. What matters is the wellness of the oppressed people of South Sudan. Our focus and energies should therefore be channeled to maintaining oneness and solidarity of our people instead of creating bickering at this critical moment of uncertainty about our destiny. Joseph Kenyi, Memphis, TN

AU partiality on south independence Mr. Jean Ping, the Chairman of the AU Commission for Sudan naked utterances against the independence of Southern Sudan in Addis Ababa on the 39 Submit yesterday has seriously cast doubts on the AU impartiality in the Sudanese affairs. The Envoy has overstepped his diplomatic lines. He has insulted the conscience of our people; we aren't going to take it lightly this time about. In the name of God the Creator this man must pay for his vicious statement against our people rights. Our people especially leaders in Juba and Khartoum (Southern leaders) are to move a motion of protest against this reckless envoy. He must get out of our country quickly or else! What makes this Chinese who claims to be Western African more clever than hosts of diplomats and mediators who mid-wifed Sudan in 2005? Mr. Ping, this is not your first time to poke your dirty nose on the Southern Affairs. Our people have noted your remark seriously. Leave us alone Mr. Pig! Isaiah Abraham-Juba

Dr. Lam's Candidature: I've been reading through a number of articles relating to Lam Akol becoming the next President of GOSS. I read many articles/press releases about SPLM-DC and the group who claim to come and salvage our beloved country.

However, if I may request, any Southern Leader who truly comes to remedy the vulnerable women and children of this beloved country should ideally first reflect back to how he/she would deal with the Khartoum government in regards to southern Sudan socio-political developments.

Unfortunately, SLPM-DC has preached a lot about the south failures and condoned the Khartoum mishaps which kept the country in disarray for the past centuries. What does this mean?

Secondly, any political party which proclaims its formation for national transformation should in fact advocate at the national level for complete democratization BUT SPLM-DC and Dr. Lam have concentrated on the south issues as if Khartoum is leading the country perfectly when we have innocent civilian dying on daily basis in Darfur. What has SPLM-DC and Lam firmly say about this?

Thirdly, Lam and his group in their recent commentary said south secession amounts to serious "suicide," why didn't Lam mention the benefits of unity based on practical examples on how Khartoum has tried its best to transform Sudan from good to better or best? I'd rather say, Lam has stepped on the wrong stone by mentioning this word by his mouth.

I need a serious SPLM-DC supporter to provide answers to these questions. I've no Political affiliation neither a party member but I'm a civil society activist. I've worked in all the ten states of South Sudan and I know the misery our people go through minute by minute since 1956 based on their memories they shared with me.

Any response to this letter should be objective and of intellectual structure. Malish John Peter, Sudan

Kiir's leadership may end soon Mr. Isaiah Abraham, your analysis is convincing. I believe that the SPLM did not prepare itself in the first place to transform Sudan democratically. It was just a slogan that was meant to propagate it for the consumption of Western world in order to get support.

How would a political party that works to promote democracy abandon or resist the voice of the people if it is really for democratic change by the people, for the people and of the people? And how come the party would divide its own members into loyalists and non-loyalists?

Can a chairman think of his deputy as non-loyal to the very party he is leading as number two in power? And can an army commander-in-Chief think of his deputy commander-in-chief as non-loyal when he is already the second most powerful officer in the army? How did they get those positions in the first place? And how would you force them out of those positions and avoid trouble at the same time?

This behavior which Kiir has allowed to grow may bring his very downfall soon. Dr. Riek Machar deserves thanks for bringing us to where we are now. Some people have chosen to think of 1991 as a dark year, but they don't know that others think of it as a blessed year because that is when self-determination was re-introduced and championed. That is when democratic transformation was re-introduced in the movement in 1994 instead of the communist ideology from 1983 to 1991.

I know some writers will desperately try to deny this by saying that others talked about self-determination before back to 1947. Yes, I am not saying that those of Dr. Machar and Dr. Lam invented it, but they are the leaders of this generation or this period of struggle that have championed it. Every body knows that the word self-determination existed even before 1947. And even the principles of justice, freedom of expression, equality, etc were not invented by Dr. John Garang or Dr. Riek Machar. They were there before they were born and had to copy them from other nations.

However, Dr. Riek Machar and Dr. Lam Akol decided to champion them (self-determination and democratic transformation) and have worked for their promotion. So the writers like Jacob Lupai should be advised not to become too emotional to the extent of denying the self-determination champions what they deserve.

As for Kiir's politics of conspiracy, this is more likely to backfire on him during the elections. I strongly believe that he will NEVER be sworn in as the first ELECTED President in Southern Sudan. Tut Gatwech, USA

Separatist masquerade The funny thing is that Mr. James Okuk and their SPLM-Dc have supported President Al-Bashir for Presidency. Yet, Mr. James Okuk calls himself a separatist, what a joke! Sabrino Majok Majok, Sudan

Lam, change the conditions, not the objective DR. Lam has now qualified his statement that the suicidal choice of secession is true only as long as SPLM is in power. What it means then is that if SPLM won the elections in south Sudan, then southerners are advised to vote for unity in order to avoid 'Somalizatiuon'. Is it a good advice from Dr. Lam Akol?

While I personally do not condone corruption, mismanagement and wanton disregard of the rule of law, nevertheless, I would never temper with the objective of a people simply because the conditions are not or won't be right. Change the conditions and not the objective!

Secondly, if the south is going to secede, should the north be left in bad hands? This is what Lam and company are trying to do - support NCP and keep the status quo.  Yanga Saturlino, Sudan

Dr. Lam Akol Prediction for the Future of South Sudan is Irregular and Blind  Dr. Lam Akol's recent comment predicting South Sudan to be another Somalia in the event it opted for secession in January 2011 has exposed him as a funny, inconsistent unprincipled person who cannot cope up with the political situation in South Sudan as he is suffering from inferiority syndrome.

The inter-tribal conflict in South Sudan is not a new phenomenon, it was founded by Dr. Lam and supported by president Al-Bashir update. In fact at the moment, South Sudan is already another Somalia which our patriotic South Sudanese are trying to build and put it together.

Dr. Lam should refrain himself from drawing conclusion on people's revolution based on his preference or taste. If Dr. Lam think he cannot leave or survive without the help of northern Arab elite that he has been getting throughout his life, South Sudan can do better without him and his long Arabs friend backers because we earned nothing other than misery, injustices, oppression of all sort in the hands of Arabs regimes in north Sudan since creation.

South Sudan has good number of upright confident intelligent and ethical leaders who can led our people to promised land and build a true vibrant and prosperous African Independent state. So Lam should not be hypocritical, mislead us that he cares about South Sudan with his blind prediction on the future of South Sudan. I suggest it is time for Dr. Lam to worry about himself and his future. Otherwise, he's not the type Southerners need given his awful record on human rights abuses he had inflicted on Southerners.

It is absurd to see a fellow elderly educated South Sudanese brother, father, and husband who's supposed to be exemplary to many with his qualification reducing himself before the northern elite and is expecting them to provide for South Sudan what they have been unable to for ages.

Well, people are born to have choices and since our brother Dr. Lam choose to destruct South Sudan revolution and wanted to chain South Sudanese into slavery for good and for his self personal benefit, let him come down in South Sudan and campaign for presidency and see what a defeat and embarrassment to traitors like him mean. Laku Modi Tombe, Canada

Voting will only double existing suffering The greatest Dilemma in south Sudan was the mistake by SPLA leadership not to separate SPLA soldiers and the Politicians. Its was illegal and still illegal that Dinka as a tribe had be grouped as southern politicians regardless of being in the army, government offices, farmers, cattle keepers, hunters and others. Well educated, genuine politicians are forced to work for some people taking higher positions in the government without valid documents. Who the hell are these people anyway? Is it the cause of the civil war in 1983 or is there something beyond the knowledge of the civil society?

In the first place, occupation of some lands in the south Sudan by Dinka are breeding grounds for another civil war. There is no way Dinka culture can be imposed by the GoSS all over south Sudan. Southern Sudanese must stand up for own rights and the policies of bush war promises must stop. The parliament of GoSS had been occupied by this one tribe and things on discussions are based on their self interests. Most Sudanese lost their land to Dinka during the war thinking that we are hosting people displaced by the war, but GoSS parliament happened to call it 'Dinka right to Occupy.' Its our time to see that those Dinka moved back to their home land, if not, the rest of southern Sudanese must not waste their Votes. See in your own towns who is the boss beginning from the Markets, the police, the customs, the prisons, the armies and others. Voting for GoSS would mean doubling the existing suffering without question as today you have not right even to pick Mangoes planted by your ancestors. Martin Wanawasa, Gambella Camp - Ethiopia

So 1st. Lt. Gen. Kiir Was Wearing SPLA Uniform Illegally!!! Again the Abyei Minister, Luka Biong, who thinks he is the doctor of everything around GoSS's incumbent President Salva Kiir, has belittled himself and humiliated his boss in the face of the public again. By telling us that Kiir was already a retired SPLA general since 2005 before the untimely death of Dr. John Garang de Mabior, the logic flashes back and says "and so 1st. Lt. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit Was Wearing SPLA Uniform Illegally!!! Hummmmmmmm!!!!

What a criminal act against the SPLA’s White Paper if this is true. If I were Kiir I will fire Dr. Luka Biong immediately for portraying me as an illegal SPLA general in green military uniform. It is better that Kiir sends the Abyei Minister back to the World Bank (South Sudan Sector) or re-appoint him as the head of Southern Sudan Census and Statistics Commission where he can practice his proper professionalism. The Abyei Minister has failed the test of Constitutional Law and Political Democratic Procedures and Rules of Game because he went to sit for a wrong exam. Shame on him!!! Dr. James Okuk.

President Kiir should follow the Law It is surprising to receive the latest news about the resistance of Gen. Kiir for the entire laws of both national and southern Sudan constitutions. Gen Kiir should be advised wisely by his legal advisor and not presidential affairs minister to follow the right procedure rather than become a law breaker.

Southern Sudan is not and should not be ruled by one person who is not even qualified to lead it. Mr. Michael Makuei should not compromise with any situation pertaining laws in southern Sudan. Otherwise the pitch you are allowing your president to fall in may swallow both of you at the same time. People of the south need to hear your reaction as the defender of the law.
The Big Gen, you need not to be told that southerners are fed up with your dictatorship and one-man ruling system. Quit it for some one and go home dignified. Garkwoth Yud, South Sudan

Do not bring shame to South! SPLM should replace Mr. Yasir Arman from presidential candidate. Yasir Arman is very small! He has no "muscles and strengths to rule Sudan at this point! He knows politics very little! Northerners in the north in Khartoum are not going to vote for him! Northerners are going to vote for President Omer El Beshir in the north. They are going to blame him for his siding with animist Southerners in the South. Yasir Arman was using Garang in the South for his own safety on his own life. SPLM Political Bureau in Juba will look ashamed in the South Sudan! President Salva Kirr himself should have been nominated by his Political Bureau for top post to vie President Omer El Beshir in election because he is taking John Garang's position. .Why he is afraid? Chief Abiko, USA

Unwavering Defense of Constitutional Democracy: Let me thank Elder Dr. Justin Ambago for commending my analysis of elections politics regarding the GoSS contestants. Dr. Ambago presented a good defense of Constitutional Democracy. In truth we trust and nothing else we should hold with utmost honor but the truth. Article 111(1) of the Interim Constitution of Southern Sudan (2005) states it clearly that the President of the Government of Southern Sudan shall only be the C-in-C of the Sudan People's Liberation Army "prior to the elections that shall be held during the interim period." This Constitution does not say the person who contests for the presidential seat of the GoSS should be the C-in-C of the SPLA during the elections period. The core terms of reference in the constitutional interpretation we are arguing about here are: "Prior" and "During". It is clear in the mentioned article 111 (1) that the SPLM Chairman, SPLA C-in-C and the United Sudan FVP is categorically not allowed to be in military uniform during the elections process if he chose to run for any top seat at any level of Government in the South.
 
Now that Kiir has been nominated officially by the Politburo of his SPLM to contest for GoSS Presidency in April 2010 elections, the ball of the elections game is thrown into his side either to respect the NEC regulations or become a constitutional delinquent by defiance. If he chooses to go by the negative side of military dictatorship that has nothing to do with civilian democracy, he should better get reminded that Hon. Judge Abel Alier is a silent killer when it comes to law enforcement. No joke; even the Abyei brother-in-law, Yasser Arman, may get disqualified because there are criminal legal cases against him pending in the court in Khartoum regarding murder and insult to Khartoum State Police. God bless South Sudan and the Defenders of Its Constitutional Democracy in practice rather than in paper. Dr. James Okuk.

Commander-in-Chief is a civilian post, Dr.Okuk You seem to overlook the fact that the position of the C-in-Chief of the Amy is not a military one; it is a civilian post, Dr. Okuk. However, the position of the General Chief of Army or “Al Qa’ed El A’am,” which Sudan President, Bashir, resigned is a military post. Nice try. Yai Kual, Canada

Shilluk should settle land dispute peacefully Reply to Fascola A. Ajang Nyiker, Sudan on his letter entitled, "Areas all belong to Shilluk,“ which came as reply to Ms. Abok Dau.

I would like to comment on the following points which came in your article:
1- I heard they are saying in their song 'Shilluk must be fought and finished.'
2- You know the truth, that Shilluk did not attack any tribe because they are peace keepers,
3- These areas belong to Shilluk Kingdom not to Dinka.

My comments are:
1- From where did you hear that song that Shilluk must be fought and why? We should stop telling lies and blindfolding our poor south Sudanese communities who suffered from the war and the life of displacement. Where did Dinka meet and decided to fight Shilluk their fellow county people? They know that most Shilluk people are innocent except few power seekers who would like to acquire power and wealth through the blood of these poor Shilluk people. Dinkas do not kill their nephews and uncles. I would like to appeal to all Shilluk of good will to resist and oppose the tribal war policy of those Shilluk leaders who are now only serving the policy of Jallaba to create tribal fights in south Sudan so that the referendum will not take place.
2- Yes it was known that Shilluk are peace keepers but we don’t know what have happened to some Shilluk of this generation who don’t behave like their old generation who were not only the peace keepers but also the peace makers. These few Shilluk have become war makers and mongers and they would attack any Dinkas and burn down Dinka villages as it had happened in Dongjol, Piegi and Atar Chuai and I would like to ask you to ask for a neutral fact finding committees to go to those above areas to investigate my allegations and claims. All these attacks are plans of these few shilluk evil leaders to create the tribal war in Upper Nile, but wise people from both tribes (Shilluk and Padang Dinka) will not accept.

Mr. Nyiker, the Upper Nile have missed the wise Shilluk leaders like the late Othwon Dak, Peiu Yokwan and our elder Lwoji Adowk, King Reth Ayang.  
3- Malakal issue known by all Southern Sudan tribes that these areas belong to Shilluk Kingdom not to Dinka.
This point of tribal, counties and south Sudan states borders as you have stated above that all areas belong to Shilluk, was found by the evil Shilluk leaders as the only way to get support from this poor innocent Shilluk people when they are told that your lands are occupied by the Dinka, not because they are interested to protect shilluk and their lands but to use them for political purpose to pressure the SPLM and the GoSS leadership so that they can gain what they want from the SPLM and the GOSS. Therefore, border problem could not be genuine reasons of fighting between the shilluk and Padang Dinka for the South Sudan local government act of 2009 have defined clearly how a border dispute could be settled between payams, counties and states and therefore, there were no justified reasons for a tribe to attack another tribe to recover the land occupied before due to different reasons. William S D Tor, Sudan

When the hat fits, wear it Mr. Salva Kiir is wearing two hats, he is the president of GOSS and the vice president of the Sudan. Should Mr. Bashir fail to go through the election that is forthcoming, definitely Salva Kiir has to take over, it does not matter to which party they belong. If the Arabs do not have that respect to look at southerners as equal which is why the war started back on 18/08/1955 the north have to think twice. If you want change, you must be the first to change.

Whatever the case may be the only change we as south Sudanese need is to install a south Sudanese in the Governor Gordon's republican palace
in order to erase the mistrust that existed since day one on 01/01/1956. If not, we shall go in exactly the same way unilaterally with the support from SSLA. To me I think Mr. Salvatore is wearing the right hat that fits and should take us to Caanan in 2011. Justin Chicago Opiny, Canada

Pres. Kiir: wrong man for a right job Dr. Makor, the retirement was untimely, you shouldn't have put a face to defend Mr. Kiir's poor judgment about the so-called retirement of freedom fighters. Gen. Kiir (not Gier) didn't do the right thing, but unfairly dump our beloved officers who made us proud, on the behest of few advisors from his home area who don't want a certain section to 'dominate' the interior ministry.

Dr. Makor, you are a new comer, and know little about the internal politics within the SPLM party, and therefore it's wise for you to hold your horse and take it that Mr. Kiir's retirement package was a political motivated scheme, its as simple as that. Common sense overrides a rule; why kick out seven generals from one area leaving their age mates in the same units? This is not a small thing brother. Some of us had earlier warned about the man's narrow-mindedness, yet there are people who only see nothing around them. I can see him going to do more harm to our togetherness in the years to come unless he's stopped.

Mr. Ambrose Riiny is on record of having messed up things while serving as Chief Justice, what is it in reference can we say about Gen. Wel Atiu, Gen. Makuei? Gen. Agasio's inclusion has been a patch up dressing to shield the tribal card underneath. But even then, Gen. Agasio had a wonderful record. A wise leader would have left him to see the independence of South Sudan before he is retired, something that could be done professionally and with legal backing.

Look at this little story: on the night of 27/5/1992, Gen. Agasio came from Chukudum, and on his way to the town from Khor Machi (Kapoeta suburb), his aid asked him whether they could return since the town is being deserted- people are leaving the town- because of imminent attack by SAF and its militiamen the next day. He replied him (aid) with a question: "should we leave the war that has brought us to the bush?, No, we aren't turning away from it!", and he joined us in Kapoeta the same night.

How can Kiir forget this hero and to instead embrace Martin Majut with his group who never fired a bullet in the bush? I know who you are and what is it that you had wanted to convey! My beloved SPLM party has been hijacked by those who sat on the fence while men were dying. Who will save this party from splintering?

I don't think, Dr. Makor, an intellectual like you could stand for a weakling leader like Kiir; he had a chance and since he has squandered it, let's turn to the next man in command. Gen. Kiir is a wrong man for a right job. Keeping him is a burden to our nation in the long run. I don't like Bor people (all of you anyway), at all, but on this particular case, they have been short changed. Isaiah Abraham-Juba

Not for govt. officials Yes Mr. Biar Aguek! It can be shameful when your own people are killing the members of the Nation which you're ruling, but the issue of conflict between Dinka and Nuer is like something born which can not be the concern of the Government officials. Simon Gatpiny, Uganda

 

No crying foul All these are lies, the government of Lakes State has acted within her jurisdiction and no sound mind can blame her. If the civilians do not respect the soldiers then they have to be dealt with accordingly. There is no crying foul forever; an eye for an eye is the fair game. Juol Nhomngek Daniel, Kampala

 

Don't divide SPLA into tribes To answer the question of Mr. Akolde Jinub, in which he asked 'what an army that we have in south Sudan?', I acknowledge that the article was based on bitterness and grievances following the recent incidents in Lakes state where civilians resist disarmament, two people were killed, then SPLA forces were ambushed and more than 14 soldiers were killed in the process.
The question of Mr. Akolde has many ways of interpretations; first is the interpretation of the Lakes State population in which they consider the 5th Division as Nuer, not SPLA, which fuels clashes between the communities and SPLA forces in the area in any minor incident. The other interpretation is a genuine one questioning the professionalism of the current SPLA.
Definitely, any one knows that the current SPLA is not the one before CPA, it is a combination of the old SPLA and the integrated SSDF, plus some civilians who were leaked into the files and ranks of SPLA during the integration process.

Personally I know two pastors who were in Khartoum, who were neither SPLA nor SSDF and now they are officers with high ranks, without a one day training (ne of them was a prominent figure in FOCUS). And if this is the case with pastors, one could expect the worse.
The question in my mind always is that when will southerners be able to criticize themselves, and when are they going to have some sort of nationalism running in their blood?

I answer myself sometimes that most of the patriotic people have sacrificed their lives to get CPA, and now we are left with the least nationalism and patriotism.
Mr. Akolde seems to be well informed and he sounds like an SPLM member, but with more tribal emotions and feelings. His article has alot of real issues that are the main challenges for GOSS, but in between the lines, he inserted some unfounded allegations against SPLA. For instance, he forget to mentioned that in Yambio incident; it was an SPLA soldier who was brutally killed and buried at night leaving his leg outside the tomb, but when the soldiers retaliated and killed police officers, they were brought to book and court-martialed (GCM)- Not true, Editor.
Mr. Akolde should remember that 3 states in southern Sudan are very troubled, they are the only states where SPLA forces are attacked and ambushed by civilians. These are Lakes, Jongulie and Warrap States.
and I have seen with my own eyes where civilians were more well equipped with new AK 47 and other machine guns more than SPLA.
I am not approving the killing of innocent civilians, but I'm against dividing SPLA to tribes, and if it happens that Nuers soldiers were many in Lakes States, they should not be treated as Nuers, the same case as in Yambio, where local politicians were trying to reflect SPLA soldiers as Dinkas. I don't know where can we get a soldier who doesn't have a tribe? If Mr. Akode knows one he should inform us.
Concerning the failed Governors, I do agree with him that all the governors except Paul Malong Awan of Northern Bahr Ghazal, have failed in keeping social peace-- indeed nothing much in development. Some people can disagree with me on this but they have to see those states and compare them to Northern Bahr Ghazal first, where all villages have been rehabilitated and roads are reconstructed including the railways.
I am emphasizing that Salva Kiir can't succeed if the local politician are stuck to their tribes rather than the party (SPLM). Dr. Ajack Makor, Juba

 

Was it not your king's mismanagement? Biar, please blame your Kiir. Dr. Riek has no connection with the recent revenge. He is doing more for us. As Southerners, let we work hand to hand to overcome the Arab challenges. Will South be independent under Kiir regime?
 If Dinkas/slaves were the only force who fought Arabs, why is it difficult to fight Nuers? Please we want other Southerners to breathe fresh air not to be polluted by your fleshes. Unity is great, so why we divert? Try to influence your Kiir to fire Dr. Riek if you will not hide yourself in Ethiopia if you said it. Let Unionists keep silent and victory to Separatists. Peter Pal, Ethiopia

 

Is Dr. Riek Machar free from killings in Tonj? After reading about the massive killings of Dinka people by Nuer bandits in Tonj, Warrap State, it is confusing where we southerners are heading to and where our future South Sudan lies. Just a month after an attack that killed nine family members, another primitive attack was organized by the same Nuer group from Bentiu of Unity state. Despite Vice president, Dr. Riek Machar's presence in Unity State, his own people organized raiding and killing of Dinka people without shame and respect to their son as a figure in the government. Is Riak machar innocent and free from this?

A final call to Nuer intellectuals around the globe and as well a final warning: As a serving person in the government, it does not make sense to continue serving when my people are being killed now and then. Dinka being the largest ethnic group in the South has stood firm since the start of struggle for freedom of South Sudan, if I'm not mistaken. Up to now, some families are closed down due to 1991 Riek's foolish plan of power struggle; is that not enough? What do Nuer want Dinka to do? How long do they expect Dinka to continue hesitating? Why do they organize themselves only to attack Dinka alone? Biar Ayuen Aguek, Ethiopia

 

Kiir's Gogrial Office of Stealing Services (GOSS) Of the couples of articles I have read on this website on the issue of sacking of army generals from Dinka Bor, my view is that Southern Sudan is heading for a Somalia-like chaos. But who is to blame for this confusion we are marching towards other than Gen. Salva Kiir, who out of no other major issue than to employ his kinsmen from Gogrial? He, Kiir, and his supporters reacted angrily in 2004 when rumors spread out that late Dr. Garang wanted to replace him with Nhial Deng! Which begs the question, what does he, Kiir, think will be the perception of these sacked generals plus their supporters to his cowardice and unprofessional conduct?

The forced removal of these generals who gave their best during the war and who on their unlucky days would have lost their dear lives like countless compatriots from this victimized community is a recipe for doom. Dinka inclusive of all its sections plus other tribes participated together in unity against jellaba oppression of our people. And for Salva Kiir to turn against certain group of Dinka amounts to betrayal and invitation of chaos in the South. Honestly, was it only Gogrial or Dinka Bhar el Ghazal that fought the war alone? If not, why is Salva Kiir turning South's government into Gogrial Office of Stealing Services (GoSS)?

The replacement of these generals by those who hail from Kiir's region is a direct proof of nepotism and his intention to entrench this uncivilized practice into a system of yet unborn nation of South Sudan. So does he think that other communities will watch in silence as he and thieves from his region continue to loot public wealth? He is dead wrong if that is his belief. Yaak Goikwach, Australia

 

A mockery on Shiek Abdalla Deng Nhial! Nomination of Sheik Abdulla Deng Nhial by his boss in the party Dr. Abdulla Hassan El Turabi, for presidency seat in the country is as bad as a big "mockery" on Mr. Abdulla Deng Nhial himself, and southerners as a whole in the land in the South and Sudan in general. Sheik Abdulla Deng Nhial is very small! He has no "muscles and strengths" to climb the ladder to the top! His boss Dr. El Turabi is making fun of him. Abdulla Deng Nhial should repudiate his nomination immediately to save himself from embarrassment soon in the whole Sudan in election in April 2010! Chief Abiko, USA

 

South Sudan is a country for all southerners I am saddened by the snobbish and myopic argument that Magok Magok and Nyiel Dot are staging on this website. All southerners had suffered in one way or the other and it is a lack of critical analysis, which pushes these two people to argue like that. This website was established as a means of creating a forum for all the nationalists from southern Sudan to find their national identity after decades of suffering under foreigners.  

Who has not suffered? All, from west to east and from north to south of the south Sudan had suffered during the war. Not only Bhar el Ghazal and Bor people but all. South Sudan is the Country for all Southern Sudanese. Hence, individual's interest should not override the national interest. Let's put aside all these issues and watch out for the success of referendum. Juol Nhomngek Daniel, Kampala

 

Nothing special about Bor generals Dear brothers, I didn't want to reply your remarks on the comments that appeared on this site of South Sudan Nation because your dissenting voices are targeted to the person of President of South Sudan's decree of removing some of your so-called "7 Bor generals". I changed my mind to add my voice on your arguments because your comments are not only false and misleading, but to some large extent try to fuel ethnic hatred in our beloved South Sudan.

You have charged the president of being tribalistic and politically inexperienced. But, basing my judgment on the motive of your comments, has to some large extent put you on the top of the list of egocentric and tribal minded guys South Sudan ever has. You stressed so much about "Bor" but I want to ask you why is Bor community so special to you more than South Sudan? To me, Bor is just like any other community in South Sudan irrespective of the status or geographical area a community may be located. Further, I see government of South Sudan as the government of the people of South Sudan and there is no point when the president removes an individual as per his prerogative, it should not be treated as a target of one community.

 

The immediate need of the people of South Sudan is for the government to make expedient delivery of services to the people and therefore it is not advisable for the president to keep around individuals who are incompetent only for appeasing one particular community. That is a mere cheating and it is only a chauvinistic minded one that can tune into this scenario. You should also remember that war was fought by all the people of South Sudan and all of them shall continue doing so. No community should elevate itself to have had fought more than others while talking unity in South Sudan. Mapuor Malual Manguen, South Sudan

 

Gogrialization of GOSS by Kiir You're right Mr.. Chagai, Pres. Kiir has sown the bad seed of hatred in south Sudan. Such tribal victimization has charged the public opinion, especially among the Bor people. Wherever you go here in the south, all Bor people are greatly disturbed by the recent events of retiring these generals. It has for the first time made the BOR people cautious of the intentions Kiir has for south Sudan and particularly, the BOR  people!

Many of the Bor sons have now resolved not to talk aloud in support Kiir.  I hope Bor people are now more than ever ready to make an alliance with any other like minded southerner who is willing to remove Kiir from the presidency!

Gogrialization of the government of south Sudan is now crystal clear and that's why any appointment in Juba must have some Gogrial connections. Kiir is turning the south into his own asset by trying to bring in all those from his village into the government. It is going to be a case of south Sudanese citizens against GOGRIAL.and we will see who will beat who. Pres. Kiir needs to be prepared for a public outrage against him. Alier, Sudan

 

Good neighbors? I am a northerner from Wadi Halfa. I hope that we'd live as one people in a country or live as two good neighboring countries. I hope this New Year will be bring us both peaceful and promising outcomes. Amir, China

 

Dr. Riak Machar a political prostitute? Dear Isaiah, your argument is quite sentimental and that in my opinion should be a spirit of a patriot. But you are not a patriot, not even an iota.
The reason is quite simple and clear, no matter the affiliation (whether political or personal) between you and Mr. Riak Machar, one can never trust him in leading this beautiful nation of ours. Dr. Riak is a political prostitute who has slept with various political parties for his own interests at the expense of the SPLML/A and the southerners. For that we shall never forgive him.

It is said, "its better the devil you know than the angel you don't know." We know the weaknesses and the strengths of Mr. Kiir. No one can be all good (he's human, remember?). What we need least now is disunity amongst ourselves till the end of referendum. Once Southerners have achieved their objective, then the so-called good leaders can take over and do the tasks Mr. Kiir hasn't achieved. we'll still give them credit. Gum Maciek Benjamin, South Sudan

 

Gen. Kiir should evacuate the post Isaiah, please allow me to appreciate the move you have made by highlighting the most hidden truth to our people in general and about President Salva in particular. South Sudan needs a well qualified leader, which is very critical as we speak at the moment. It isn't necessary in my view to mention who is qualified to the post, but to really emphasize that president Gen. Salva Kiir should accept the challenge and evacuate the post to any other successor in accordance to the will of the people of the south. It is my prayer, that the God we save will bring us a leader who will lead with respect and dignity toward the unity and development of our beloved nation. Garkwoth, Sudan

 

Bor suffered for south: Reply to comrade Magok Magok. I'd like to point out some errors that you in cited at your article title "Bor only like to govern." I thought when people like you and me go to school, the purpose is to build the future but not to destroy it. Also pointing a finger against each other is not going to liberate us from our common enemy, Jallaba. I'm not here to defend Bor against your criticism but here to correct the misunderstood era by few like you. I wonder if you had joined the movement you'd have not acrimoniously write this piece of article which compelled people like me to response.
 To make it concise for Bor soldiers not the generals: Did you know that at the beginning of the May 16/1983 Bor Mutiny by 104 and 105 battalions, 90% of those forces which later on were renamed as Tiger, Jamus and Timisaa, were all from Bor? Did you also know that 95% of Kooriom Brigade were from Bor? The good example is my sub-clan, more than 3,000 people and youth joined the SPLA, only 4% that joined survived the brutal war with very substantial injuries.
 
For the case of Dr. Reik Machar, or Nasir SPLA faction which captured Bor within two weeks: Yes the same reason that I gave you early that no any Bor youth left at home to protect Bor; as that was the case with some places or tribes which were having reserve forces such as Titbaai and galwok, but Bor did not have that force. Also if you were with us in the movement, did you know that SPLA sent some battalions to those places but that did not happen in Bor? That is why Riekers captured Bor. You let me sound like tribalistic man but that is not the case.


Another example, I was 13 yrs old when I joined the SPLA, the most youngest. I didn't lay down my gun or go to school till I was severely wounded two times and then discharged. Again seven of us from our father joined SPLA and only two of us survived with injuries. Is that cowardice?

 

I do not think that Bor people wanted to rule unless one is chosen by his people like John Garang. Now is Salva Kiir and he is not from Bor; followed by Riek and many others; not one Bor is in the chain of successors of presidency of south Sudan government or any other governments. I think each of tribe in south Sudan, whether big or small, has at least contributed to the struggle and each has a right to reign in south Sudan. Nyiel Dot Duoi, Canada

 

Dr. Riak is also a tribalist To Isaiah Abraham, when I saw the title of your article, I thought it was an analysis but to my surprise when I passed through your text I realized that you are contesting for Dr. Riek Machar. It's not bad to do so, but what made me to hate your writing is your fabricated allegations pertaining Kiir's administration while forgetting your aspirant's (Riek Machar) faults. Recall the 1990s... the things that your king has done and compare with Kiir's. You went as far as saying that your king is not a tribalist, forgetting that under the Sun, there is nothing that can be hidden. In the same 1990s some guys mainly students in Khartoum who do not belong to Nuer whenever they (students) tried to go to your king they were told, this is Nuer's agreement but you the rest mainly Muonyjang/Dinka, your government is still in the bush. Therefore, no room for you. Because of no time, I want to say be frank and sincere in whatever you say rather than accusing others baselessly. Atem Angok, Sudan

 

Think positive to build south Mr. Yong, you put it right yourself that whoever lived outside Juba won't know the magnitude of corruption since GOSS was established in 2005, but the truth is contrary to what you have stated. You are very biased even from the three examples that you have mentioned.
It is true that there was and there is corruption in GOSS, but the condition is coming under control, and the proof is that all who you have mentioned are scared now, and have never been redeployed, exception is Mathok. One of them was imprisoned and was released on bail.
Corruption was expected in a country like ours where there were no laws before, and officials are of little or no experience. (SPLA CDRs were either new graduates or school leavers).
Please Mr. Yong, don't be filled with hatred and think positively to build your country. It is your right to vote out Salva Kiir, but it is a shame to fabricate unripen stories of nepotism and fake corruption.
Whoever told you that Kiir has never liberated or defended a town was telling you jokes, or he is envious. Ask those who're in Eastern Equatoria since 1987 and onwards, and you will stop creating new stories. You sound very naive to be a leader or a man of opinion. Dr. Ajack Makor, Sudan

 

Bor only likes governing Mr. Deng, I wish you'd have used your correct name. There are no names like yours in Bor community. I think you have missed the point. Dinka Bor should have been grateful and celebrating. Dinka Bor is just a small community that has been dominating SPLA in terms of Generals but they don't have soldiers. You know very well that the Dinka sections which had joined SPLA in their thousands if not millions. You Bor people only like governing and not facing the realities of leadership when it comes to defending it. Dinka tribe is being honored because of Dinka Malual, Dinka Rek, Dinka Agaar, and Padaang. Bor is just cowardice Dinka section, that was why the whole was captured by Riek Machar's Nuer within one week in 1992. Mangok Mangok, Sudan

 

Our president not a dictator It's really a bitter pill for me to swallow when I heard my president (Kiir) being branded as a dictator. How come someone we have been together for so long time turned to be a dictator? Is it because of the top position he is holding? There is something that we need to understand about leaders, leaders are people who always behave in a unique manner. Leaders do posses two major qualities - these are authority and power. When the president use his powers to bring order where there is disorder, this does not mean he is a dictator. He is purely using the powers bestowed to him by us. The best example is the removal of seven generals in south Sudan army, they might have defied the president's orders at one point. But many of us went on to say that generals were removed because they are from Bor. This is not the best way to respond to national issues, we should first understand issues before responding negatively. Our president deserves respect, appreciation and correction since he is a human being and he can make mistakes like any one of us. Lotilu Daniel, Sudan

Ministerial post in government should not be use as an opportunity to advance tribal agenda First and foremost, I will begin my short article by thanking almighty God for given me this opportunity to wish all the Sudanese and people of South Sudan in particular Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May the year 2010 be the year of unity, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexisting among the people of South Sudan and people of Upper Nile State in particular?

I thought I made myself crystal clear in my pervious article that I am not against any critic to the government of South Sudan and its leader, but I do strongly object those who use public office to advance their tribal agenda when they should be working for the wellbeing of all citizens regardless of their tribal affiliation.

Minister of high Education, Dr. Peter Adwok should have followed party principle in expressing his dissatisfaction either to his colleagues in the government of South Sudan as well as to the leader of his party in a closer door party or ministerial caucus instead of expressing his criticism through World Wide Web.   

I believe that all members of SPLM party who are holder of key positions in two levels of governments have privileges that give them undeniable access to consult with the president of government of South Sudan more than ordinary citizens. Dr. Peter Adwok should have used his privilege to express his doubtful concern regarding the worsening conditions and how the government of Soudan Sudan is handling them direct to the president of the government of South Sudan

It is very hard to convince me or others concern ordinary citizens that you are not a tribal bigot when your previous writing contradicts with what you are painting here in your rebuttal. Any one who read Dr. Peter Adwok article title “the wider dimension of a current emotional and politically discharged discourse over Malakal” would probably come to the same conclusion had I did.

Secondly, you had declined to comment on the vital points of my article which provoked me in the first place to writ my article. Why did you choose to involve yourself in a tribal conflict by inciting it through your writing? You had encouraged your tribesmen to take the matter into their own hands and attack Dinka Padang. You had cultivated a fruits of hatred among the citizens of people of Upper Nile State? As a matter of the above mentioned facts, I do not need to conduct any research to determine your evolvement on an ethnic’s conflict in Upper Nile State. In addition, I had quoted some of your writing in my previous article as a proof evident that tied you to ethnic’s conflict between the two communities.

Thirdly, you acknowledged that you are indeed a committed member of the SPLM; ironically your work undermined the objectives and vision which the SPLM fought and stood for.

Honestly, I do not have to be present in Sudan to comprehend current overall conditions because we live in twenty first century the age of technological and social media.

In conclusion, the Sudanese and people of South Sudan in Diaspora including me are contributing to the cause of marginalized people at different capacities.  . Therefore, I am not hiding in Canada. I will not go back to Sudan as a resulted of your challenge, but on my own choosing term like each and every Sudanese living Diasporas. Dr. Peter Adwok, there was undeniable contribution made by citizens of Sudan in Diasporas that led into signing of comprehensive Peace Agreement.

 Dr. Peter Adwok, if you want to come clean, you should stand up, denounces your direct involvement in a tribal conflict by apologizing to the people of Upper Nile State. Abiel Kon, Canada 

Things will be better after elections Deng Deng, your article makes a great sense of understanding about both what had happened in the country and what is likely to take place particularly in Juba, and nevertheless, makes me feel that we all are concerned citizens. But one thing I will help you know is that Arthur and the likes have messed about with the properties of the public and the government of the south and the States in general, but had been told to leave the offices.

Two, I would be pleased if you bear out with my statement herein that the GoSS and SPLM officials are prepared for the outcome of the elections and referenda after which they will start a new political, socio-and- administrative chapters. My statement here implies that we need to be patient, adhere  to the policies and programs on ground and will be assured of the success by our leaders in short moment ASAP. I neither contradicted your statements nor did I omit any, but strengthening it though.
Otherwise I commended your stance. Hou Akot, a local columnist based in S. Sudan. Kudos to all people who take time to read here on the website.

 

Bor: The government is for all The article posted by Deng Deng is heavily laced with favoritism and nepotism on the side of Bor because he comes from there. I think it's best to acknowledge that all Southern Sudanese have contributed just as much as Bor peoples during and after the war. I would like to advise the like-minded people as Deng to please stop preaching tribal ideology and accept nationalism in the South as citizens. Why is it always a problem when some of our civil servants are relieved of their duties to give chance to others? And when one is employed it is a joy. Don't you know that a government is for everybody? When some one is given a post, it doesn't mean an ever-lasting assignment. Please let's grow maturely and learn for our own benefits. Mabior Agoth, USA

 

Now chance for eaters Dear Bor Citizen, don't worry, we are created differently. There are those whose main duty is to eat and eat and eat, while others like Dinka Bor are doers. Dinka Bor has done her part and now is the chance for the eaters. Aguetila, Australia

 

Condemning all corruption Dear Aaron, thanks for this article brother. Corruption has been one major hurdle that makes Africa remain undeveloped, leave alone clanism, nepotism and tribalism, as you mentioned the above two incidents where the two corruptors are from Kiir's clan/tribe. I have never been to Juba leave alone after the inception of GOSS since I was born. Anyway, this is our point discussion, I think Kiir was given that position because of knowledge that he had as far as the movement was concerned. Let us not blame him for any corruption committed by other individuals unless we blame him for not bringing corruptors to book. If I may ask are these corruptors in south Sudan? If they are there, then Kiir should be blamed for not taking stern action against them. Something which I may condemn as well is the channeling national cake (maize) to one community, it is very bad and it is wrong lesson to pass down to the next generation. Lotilu Daniel, Sudan

 

Leaders come, Leaders go Yes, Pres. Salva Kiir is right to remove unprofessional generals from the police or Prison services. Police service is not good for shallow minded generals like Makuei whose aim was to promote illiterate citizens of Bor. Four years elapsed in the Position of Inspector General of Police SSPS, but nothing is done only promotion of Dinka Bor men and women from the rank of private to 1st LT., 2nd LT. and etc.

Money from the borders  in Nimule, Kaya and Nadapal were banked in private Accounts and the states like Central Equatoria and Eastern Equatoria are not benefiting from the revenues yet they the core sources of Income.

Clearing the 7 Generals from Bor/Jonglei state is the only way of removing Ghost names from the payroll in the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Bravo! to Salva. It is very clear that ''Leaders come and Leaders go.'' De-Lam Akoll Lam, Sudan

 

Kiir on path of dictatorship I can't just believe it when the supposed people's government is doing all this on its citizens. How can president Kiir think so narrowly to an extent of victimizing one community? More than 8 generals from BOR shown the door at once! I'm amazed by this act by this man. They fought the war of liberation for the whole of their lives, and hence deserve every right to reap what they sow. Does Mr. Kiir mean these guys fought for 21 years only to serve in government for 5 years? It's just much incredible. BOR people must make some some soul searching and reconsider their view of Mr. Kiir,,, this can't be ...otherwise Kiir is on a death-path of dictatorship. Those are the signs when he is not much comfortable with these dedicated soldiers. Long live the clean liberation legacy of the BOR people. John Thon, Sudan

 

No big deal on Bor generals I think you need to get the facts before you make those statements on the web, specially calling Kiir's tribe a "foolish tribe." There is nothing wrong with Bor generals if they chose to retire. So do not make big deal out of it Deng. Mading Machar, USA

 

Dobrovolsky's opinion significant I am impressed by the contribution of Mr. Alex Dobrovolsky from The Ukraine. He has given quite a good, rational, historical and comprehensive resume of why Nilotia {Nilotica), should be the future present southern Sudan. I support his nomenclature unless it is superseded by an alternative. I will in the mean time propagate for it and I will let my colleagues of the Southern Sudan Legislative Assembly {SSLA}know about this significant opinion of Alex Dobrovolsky. Dr. Col Dau Ding, member of SSLA

 

South Sudan taking shape to become a nation I am glad that many southerners are expressing themselves positively about the future of southern Sudan on this website. As many have put it that the only way forward for southern Sudan to develop is to secede from the north is a welcoming news to me. For this, I have to tell those who have expressed these views "Bravo!"

We southerners have suffered so long that we cannot again afford to go for the Government of National Unity. However, since it is the world of democracy the people are free to express their views. But that should not deter me from putting the same question of Jesus, which he put to his disciples to those who argue for the Unity of Sudan while they are southerners and they know well our relationship with the north. Jesus asked his followers during his passion, suffering and death this question, He questioned them, "If things happen like this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?" He was questioning his disciples like this to make them aware of what would happen in the future if he was being made to suffer shamefully like that yet he was the son of God, what would happen to his followers who were mere human beings?  

Therefore, I am glad that many southerners have realized the same imminent question which is hanging in the air that if the Government of Sudan is treating Southerners with contempt like this now, what will happen when we are united under one government? The Khartoum Government is not serious at all about Unity, it is supposed to be the one who can make Unity attractive but what we see today is the reverse. The southerners are the one concerned with the unity and peace. The southerners should not waste time now. It is their time to wake up and fight for their destiny we cheated for a very long time. However, I am overwhelmed with joy that southerners have realized that and they are expressing their views boldly about the Independence of the south. Southern Sudan is taking shape and it is becoming a nation through her people. Bravo Southerners, please keep up. Juol Nhomngek Daniel, Kampala

 

Call South as "The Christian Republic of Imotong" I'd rather go for "THE CHRISTIAN REPUBLIC OF IMOTONG".
1) "Christian" identifies us from the Arab North.
2) "Imotong" instigates and spurs us to look always high to what we can achieve in life. To dream great and tall. To work for the highest dreams and positive values of the Nation. To strive together and remain high above our ethnic, political, administrative or even religious national failures like Mount Imotong. etc. etc.
3) The concept of "Nilotia" will tie us again to the Arab North. After all, we already share the Nile with it (including Ethiopia).
LONG LIVE "THE CHRISTIAN REPUBLIC OF IMOTONG" Fr. Hilary Boma Omol, Germany.

 

Good to name our country It is good to rename our country, but is Nilo-land or Nilo-nation is appropriate. To me no, because the word Nilotic is for people who live along the Nile river. The question is this, who are those people who live a along the Nile? The answer to this question is the new name to our country. Ruach Deng, Social Worker, Australia

 

Stop blaming Khartoum for our failures It is clear that as southerners, we can not achieve our goal when we are forced to accept a different culture. Secondly, we need to stop blaming Khartoum for our failures. Let's be accountable. Being independent is the only solution. Thank you,  Duol Deng

 

African National Congress (ANC- Sudan) Wau

The African National Congress (ANC-Sudan) held its first general conference between 14-16 December 2009 in Wau the capital of the Western Bhar Al Gazal state under the theme "Towards the democratic transformation and political stability in Sudan." The conference was attended by more than 500 delegates from all ten states of southern Sudan including other states of Northern Sudan such as Khartoum and Al-Gezira.

 

On the first day, the conference started with the opening speech and speech from Sudanese political parties such as the SPLM, on the second day, the ANC provisional basic rules and regulation of party organization were reviewed and endorsed unanimously by the members of the general national congress, Lt Gen (Police) Gorge Kongor Arop, the former vice president of the Sudan republic, was elected as the President of the African National Congress for the coming five years who presented a long speech on South Sudan current issues including the national issues, Party  three years progressive report  were presented by the General secretary of the ANC and Political Paper on Self-determination, election, census, security, IDP and Darfur, Economical and Social affairs papers were presented and discussed by the delegates  in groups that in conclusion presented a number of recommendations on the discussed issues

 

 On the last day the new ANC National Leadership Council members were elected who will sit down to elect the party general secretary, other political parties representatives including USAP 2 and the NCP of Northern Bhar Al Gazal who were invited on the last day, presented their speeches, and finally the ANC president delivered his last speech that marked the end of the successful party general conference. From the  

Information secretariat; Wau December 16, 2009

Micheal Aleu, you need help: Dear brother Aleu, you need help to know how to make a constructive points in your articles. The way you blame the poor and less educated governor of Northern Bar el Gahzal state is a very destructive way.  Malong is not educated because he was in the bush liberating you and you were enjoying your life in the big cities, that is why you got yourself better than Malong Awan. The current government in south Sudan is for those who contributed their blood in the bush and not for those who were living in hotels and big houses like you. Malong will come again as a governor. Please stop pouring out your cheapest goods like the hose without nozzle. Keep trying to learn how to blame someone, Riak Majakdit, Sudan

NCP and SPLM_DC grimy politics among the students in Egypt One may wonder at how to explain the technique in which the Southern Sudanese students studying in various Egyptian universities and colleges behave. They always pronounce and threaten to close down the GoSS liaison office in Egypt incase their needs are not addressed as soon as possible. For the past two days the GoSS office had been in chaos because of a crowd caused by the students that were dismissed from their respective colleges after having failed twice .I wonder what do these students demand for after having been paid their bursaries for three months and the process of their transfer is underway though late .This happened because of some important agreement that needed the attention of the of Minister of Education who was not able to come on time as expected.

After I deeply thought about the provocative attitude of some students, I concluded that the NCP and SPLM_DC dirty politics have cropped in the center of the students so as to cause tension and draw the awareness of the world that GoSS is not concerned for its children yet our government uses hard gained resources to cater for our needs here in Egypt. The Opportunists such as DR. Lam Akol (NCP agent in SPLM-DC coat) has come in secretly to pressurize the students to stage up strikes against the GoSS so as to secure the chance of challenging the SPLM leadership which is seen to be very complicated like mountaineering a branchless Mahogany. Michael Mathiang Ngong, Cairo

Voting out incapable Aweil governor I think the right time for electing a capable leader is now almost coming in which we are not going to elect incapable leaders like the current governor of Northern Bahr- el Ghazal state, Aweil. Because starting from 2010 on ward does not require nonqualified leaders to have a room again to rule us in this state, because there is high competition which is going to take place all over the South States on the issues related to development of human capacities. We have all seen the shameless things which are happening now within our community but we have nothing to say because it is not the right time for us.

Northern Bahr- el Ghazal was really unlucky state while the population which is in it never have any problem among themselves, otherwise if we are like other states we would already be boycotting against Mr. Paul Malong Awan's poor administration and fake political prostitution which he used to play over the state. I have never found a leader who loved himself like Mr. Paul Malong all around and the reason is that, the man is lacking leadership aspects that is why he had been treating people in such a curious way. In the mean time, we have got very qualified young men with efficiently bright brains like those of Dau Aturjong, Mel Wal Achien and James Ajuonga Mawut Unguec, these people are those whom we want now to come and rule us and we don't want again a savage leader like the current governor to rule this state. Michael Aleu, Aweil, NBG State

Right to criticize Kiir misleading SPLM Please, allow me to respond to Abiel Kon comments in which he said, SSLA should take action against Adwok Nyaba for openly criticizing Salva Kiir. He claims that it is one of SPLM principles not to correct or rebuke the president of the party for any wrong doing. How laughable.

My friend, Abiel Kon, I would like to tell you that you are either ignorant or a clear fool supporting dictatorship being practiced in SPLM. I can tell you any member of SPLM has right to tell Kiir or any senior official of SPLM to behave well if he/she is found to be guilty of misconduct or of doing anything wrong before the eyes of SPLM member's.

We have right as members of SPLM to continue raising issues of concern and to challenge and criticize and person in SPLM who is doing wrong. Kiir is currently misleading the party and as members we have to remind him or else he thinks he is doing just ok. Wilson, Juba

Juba worst city for crimes with impunity On the shocking police brutality in Juba , I think it will be good to install surveillance cameras around the compound and inside as well so that we will able identify who are doing this, and also SPLM must provide uniforms with names and numbers on the uniforms so that one can identify the perpetrators. Also this kind of incident must be in the news all around to let people know how poor we are governing ourselves and if we go for independence, is that how the police will start treating people whom they are supposed to protect? Juba is one of the worst cities in Sudan where every evil human can commit their evils. It will take a year if not forever to control, not to speak about the Dinka tribe who take the law into their own hands and are always protected by their leaders when they do evil things in Equatoria and expect no one to talk about it. Even in their own land, the suspect is always them. Jojo M, Tasmania

Don't blame Juba Police for nothing No smoke without fire. Police would not have gone to beat the said female staff working at Bakhita Radio in Juba for nothing. There might be a problem being caused by her in the first place. Police knew well a person who makes a problem and someone who does not make any problem. Her problem will appear out soon to people in the public. Police should not blamed for nothing before hearing the facts. Chief Abiko, USA

Police brutality in Juba At noon today, a group of about 20 presumed Central Equatoria State South Sudan Police Service personnel stormed in the premises of Bakhita Radio and beat one of the staff. They came in full riot gear and handcuffs, entering without specified reason through a gap in the fence and attacking a female member of staff. The gate was locked. The shouts from the attack alerted the rest of the Directress and staff who were inside the building and run outside to try to rescue their colleague. At least five men kicked, punched, and severely beat the young woman with short and long sticks for several minutes. When challenged, the unidentified group of police accused the woman of insulting them and called her names. They violently pulled her from the ground and threatened to arrest her. As she was curled up on the ground crying and begging for help, other staff tried to intervene. The police beat him heavily as he was trying to protect the young woman.
 
They also threatened to beat the directress and the rest of staff who spoke out in her defense. Against protests from the station management, they dragged the young woman roughly along the ground and pushed her into a ditch, where they threatened to cover her with soil. One of the policemen took a shovel from the garden and said to her as she lay covered in dirt, “this will be your graveyard.”
The directress was prevented from calling the Archbishop to report the incident.  At that point, the group of police was divided as to whether they should take the young woman or leave the compound. After brief discussion and further threats to the administration and Bakhita staff, the group left, using the same hole through which they came. From the very beginning of this incident, the violent and psychological aspects of the attack left the young woman shouting and sobbing uncontrollably.
The whole incident lasted for about 15 minutes and rendered the young
woman very emotional and deeply traumatized. For more than an hour- and even after the police had left- the young woman was hyperventilating and unable to talk coherently. As we write this report, she is still unable to control her panic.
The rest of the staff were equally affected by the attack, but Bakhita Radio maintained their broadcast throughout the incident and will continue to be on air for the people of Juba. Sr Cecilia Sierra Salcido, Directress, Bakhita Radio, Archdiocese of Juba

No cheating southerners, again Mr. Bona Malual, you have displayed your hyena sickness to the Southerners you pretended to be with, meanwhile your an enemy of south Sudan. SPLM are so knee-deep in following up your evil plans for the people of South. They will not allow it to happen this time, it is not the seventies where you can get rich at the expense of your own brothers in the South Sudan. No way for now, shame on you, Mr. Bona. your evil deed should remain in you. Dabe Joseph, South Sudan

Why is Upper Nile State under Bashir’s Leadership? As baffling as it seems, Upper Nile state should never be under the leadership of President Omer Al Bashir whatsoever. The recent removal of governor of Upper Nile state was the way I came to learn this strange news.

In that report, it was said that President Omer Al Bashir has the responsibility of appointing a governor to Upper Nile state. This prompted my question: How did this state end up to be governed by Northerners? Was this done under the Comprehensive Peace Agreement? I am confused.

A while ago, an author by the name Gatkuoth Deng wrote couples articles about the location of oil refinery that was proposed in the office of President Salva Kiir Mayardit. In those two articles, he argued chiefly on the location of the refinery. Here, he strongly disagreed with the notion of building this refinery in Warrap state. He mentioned many compelling reasons as to why Warrap is not the proper location. Based on Gatkuoth Deng’s presentation, he favored Unity and Upper Nile states.

I endorsed Gatkuoth Deng on all the things he put forward. After learning about Upper Nile being under the leadership of our soon to be only northern President, Omer Al Bashir, I have withdrawn my support for Gatkuoth about building Oil refinery in Upper Nile. Perhaps Mr. Gatkuoth Deng was not aware of this too; otherwise, he would have not considered Upper Nile as an option for this oil refinery.

In accordance with the constitution of southern Sudan, there are ten states that make up the south. Upper Nile is among these ten states. The question now is, why include Upper Nile in these states while it is under NCP?

Also, the oil share for the state of Upper Nile must be coming from the north because I don’t see the point of this state getting oil share money from the south. Someone please enlighten me, I am confused with this issue that is taking place in Upper Nile state. Gatcharwearbol, USA

SPLM Political Farce in Juba While we were crying for freedom in Khartoum State yesterday in Omdurman in a peaceful procession on those pending Bills -elections, referendum, popular consultation, security, etc, we were all surprised to hear that SPLM/GOSS Police also were tear-gassing our children in Juba which resulted reportedly in the death of a school child.

The children in Juba were peaceful demanding that their teachers on strike for the last many weeks be paid so that they are taught, they know that a hungry teacher can not teach. Why then use tear gas and bullets on those pupils and students, GOSS? Are we not agreed that peaceful procession is allowed? Or is it allowed in Khartoum and not in Juba, Wau, Rumbek, etc?

GOSS: why do you allow the Police to tear-gas our children the same time we in Khartoum are crying foul because the NCP Police used batons and tear gas on us here? Freedom and democracy must exist also in South Sudan and not only in the North Sudan. GOSS/SPLM, wash your linen clean and let us not be dictatorial in Juba and want democracy and freedom in Khartoum. May I ask was the demonstration in Juba organized by NCP? Or was it our children demanding the pay of their teachers?

It is a really a pity that while we are crying for freedom our children in Juba are being killed for demanding their rights to education. We all know that no single child of GOSS officials are in Schools in the South, we all know that no family of GOSS officials are in South Sudan, we also know that all of them have dual nationalities, as such they want to loot and and eventually settle in their second acquired countries. South Sudanese must wake up and realize these realities otherwise we're leading to doomsday.

GOSS stop tear gassing our children. I will not support the next demonstration in protest to the shooting in Juba of those kids. Andy Murusal, Khartoum, Sudan

The Arrest of SPLM Secretary Pagan Amum and His Deputy Yassir Arman is the Beginning of New Civil War in Sudan. The arrest of the SPLM Secretary Gen. Pagan Amum and his deputy Yassir Arman is a threat to the Government of Southern Sudan as well as 2010 election and promised referendum in 2011. Unfortunately, this threat will grow with time until it reaches the death point of CPA. As a concerned citizen of Southern Sudan, I would like to see my government in Juba to tell us what is to be done with this Jalaba’s threat in Khartoum.

As we all know, our two heroes faced harassment because they stood up for our rights and freedom. Let us put our dissent into silence and face enemy together for the common purpose. This is a beginning of sliding into another civil war. We need join effort to prevail. From now, we will turn war of tribalism into war of enemy. This is our big concern and as one we will defeat our chronic diseases far north and make them stay out of our lives and our country.

In anticipation, Khartoum will launch a preemptive military campaign very soon right after we, the southern Sudanese, refuse to accept the result of the elections. Because elections always favor NCP, they are very confident that they are going to win again and surely they will. But we need to learn how we are going to deal with such a tragic result.

In my outlook, as warnings already show that these elections will not be free and fair, we should simply boycott 2010 election with the consultation of international community or human rights and provide them with good evidences that NCP talks about election while the referendum legislation is two years behind schedule. I believe this is the good evidence to avoid these risky elections. How do we go to elections if there is no legislation to guide the elections? We know this very well that NCP wants to conduct these fraudulent elections in order to regain international legitimacy and hold on to power. That’s it.  Let us not give them this chance ever. Tut Makuac Luotkoway, Mankato, Minnesota, U.S.A.

 

The Bigger Picture in the elections As campaigning begins to take shape in the first multi parties, nationwide election in the Sudan for the first time in my generation life time,  images have started to pour in, strongman Kuol Manyang walking tall covered in a colorful bed sheet with Bashir, Malong Awan flip-flopping between Bashir and Arman, Kiir finally opening up to the public as Lam Akol criticized the southern Sudanese masses for the separatist leaning, a revolutionary soldier, a husband and a father, turned politician captain Zack Kot gunned down in cold blood in his bed room, old man Bona writing a confusing article full of hypocrisies in support of Bashir. Are these the images that will decide Sudan election? I hope not.
     First, these politicians are campaigning on the layers of issues unresolved in the Sudanese society since its inception.
1.     Nation state: the huge issue of creating homogenous nation (nation in this context referred to the people in the Sudanese boundary) the Semite ( Arabs), Bantus (Darfuris, Zande), River Lake Nilotics (Dinka, Nuer, Shilluk, Acholi), plain Nilotes, ( Mathah, Murle, jie) and others.
2.     Religious identity: did Islam succeed in being the sole Sudanese religion, did traditional religions, commonly term, “pagan” gods disappear in the society.
3.     Un-development:  There is serious, beyond the pale underdevelopment in the country, particularly Southern Sudan,
4.     Civil War:  what is the healing process being offered by these politicians
5.     The concept of government and God.  Who is the high authority in the present Sudan, is government on God’s will, or people’s will
6.     Unity of the Country: It seems unity of the country has pretty much dominated this election.
Few weeks ago, Bashir was quoted in the media as saying, I paraphrase that southern Sudanese need to vote unity for their own economic prosperity. Really, sir, unless you did not take Econ 101 in your Islamic schools, economic prosperity of southern Sudan does not depend on North Sudan but on good economic policy goals that a very nation pursues, such as economic growth which is simply achieve through stability and ingenuity of it citizens. I take your assertion as a threat to deny southerners Stability or else you are challenging our ability to generate growth in our society.  Indeed It the easier arguments to make, but does not win votes. The second economic goal to prosperous society is equity and fairness that you have denied southerners for year. For example, I was in Khartoum last summer, if you take a look at education system, it is an abomination on southern dignity. Education system simply designed to integrate our children in salafin paradigm. Lastly, productivity is the foundation of economic goals which requires allocation efficiency; a fact that southerners will not come to an inch to achieve as long as they remain under a society that continuously produces product that they do not want.
As a chicken come home to roost, I hope our voters will give Bashir and his season middlemen what they deserved, as well as take what belongs to them. Mading N Cienggan, USA

Bor knows Dr. Riek more Dinka Bor are not protesting about their innocent ones who lost their lives during the defection of Riek Machar when Machar accompanied Salva Kiir to Bortown. Yes, peace and reconciliation in South Sudan is essential, but let me tell you brother Majok Adar Kedum, that Dinka Bor are not protesting for the killing that was encouraged by Riek Machar forces in 1991.But they want to hear the false arguments of Riek in Bortown.

I don't think you have reasonable arguments because you forget that Dinka Bor lost their civilians due to Riek Machar defection from 1991-1992. My friend, if you didn't know, then the intention of Lam and Riek was to destroy the greater Bor because those two leaders were aiming to kill the Bor civilians because of their hatred against Dr John Garang who was the son of greater Dinka Bor.

Please bear in mind that nobody valued Karbino Kuanyin in Warrap state because he caused similar incidence like the one of Riek Machar in Borland. Do you think you can understand the feeling of Warrap citizens toward Karbino Kuanyin now? Dinka Bor are  not complaining for any leadership in the South. My advise to you is that stop talking against Dinka Bor because we know Riek Machar more than you do. Bol Deng Bol, USA

Government responsible for corruption We have talked so much about corruption and still will continue to talk about it. The government is squarely responsible for that and seems not to notice. All the people who are involved in corruption are Government officials who are greedy to become rich overnight or those who steal because the salary they get does not meet the rising cost of living. This is where the government is to blame because there is no control over commodities prices, rent, transportation and healthcare, to mention but a few. The ministry of commerce and Industry (industries which are non-existent in the south) must be very strict with checking of prices both from items coming into the country and those produced locally.
The Election is in the corner and some politicians are using CORRUPTION as a case. South Sudan is a consumer society and not a producing one and that makes it hard to make ends meet. Give salaries to people that is going hand in hand with the cost of living. People should not live beyond their means of survival otherwise corruption will not die away as long as the cost of living is beyond the salaries people get. What can you do if your rent is more than your salary, you will definitely resort to corruption to fill the gap. Cut down the cost of living and salaries should be based on that if the war on corruption is to be fought effectively as corruption comes in many forms. Justin Chicago Opiny, Canada

Southerners need reconciliation, Unity This message is a reply to Akol Aguek or Lost Boy who is now residing in Vermont, U.S.A. My brother Akol and the rest of Bor Dinka who aren't happy with Dr. Riak Machar going to Bortown, Jonglei State. Calm down your protests about Bor sufferings in 1990s and let's move forward with big ideas of liberating our land from enemies and not focus on naggings incidents that happened two decades ago. Not only Dinka Bor have been massacred by Riek's  militias, there were widespread ethnic cleansings in bordering areas of Jieng and their cousins, Nuer. Many killings had taken places in Yirol District: Shambee, Adior and other areas that bordered Western Nuer and also did occur in Rumbek, Cueibet, Tonj, Gorial, Abiei, Paring and other many areas of Dinka.

You have never heard these people complaining about Riak, Lam, Karbino, Arok, Deng Kelie, Galario Modi and other Southerners who had allied with our enemies during the war of Liberation and even within SPLA/SPLM. We've forgiven each other through CPA since we are one people divided by our shallow minds by Arabs. Your devil brother is better than your enemies. Majok Adar Kedum, Rumbek

Just to correct Chol Deng response to Bona Malwal's writing Dear Mr. Chol, you have the right to write about what you think about Bona but Bona Malwal had never worked for or had any political relationship with Al-Mahdi, since day one. Just to correct your claim! Mawien Deng, USA

CPA can be implemented without Bashier It's quite absurd for Mr. Bona Malwal to say that CPA is not going to be implemented if the Southerners fail to vote for the war-indicted Criminal Bashier. A question on this context may ask itself why is it possible to go ahead without late Dr. Garang as the one of the signatories’ of the CPA? I think his is a pure discrimination, if a Southerner is not around people can do without them but not the Northerner. Mr Bona, CPA is neither for Al Bashier nor Salva but for the people of Sudan who suffered for over fifity years. Michael Mathiang, Cairo, Egypt

Bona, your advice is our suffering Dear Uncle Bona Malual, it's your civic right to vote for Omar El Bashir but not your right to ask Southerners to vote him back in Power. Remember, Junubin have known you for what you offered them in the previous government of Nimeiri, Sadig al Mahadi and Bashir. You had been asking Southerners to support these regimes and again you want them to bring back Bashir for your own political gains. This is unacceptable.

Why is it that you think CPA will not be implemented in absence of President Bashir? It is completely absurd to think that Bashir is the only person that owns the CPA. This time, Southerner are more determined to choose their political destiny unlike in the past where few elites like Bwona Malual confused the illiterate majority. Please leave Junubin alone to decide on their own otherwise your advice to Southerners had been their sufferings. Chol Deng Yol, Sudan

Southerners will decide their own leader Mr. Bona, your article is disgusting to all south Sudanese people because it has contradicted the arrangement made during the CPA. I don't think that Bashir is the right candidate to be elected president of Sudan while he has been indicted by the ICC. It is time for Southerners to determine who will fight for their self-determination in 2011. Southerners had waged war under Bashir leaders for 22 years until the world had forced him to accept peace. I don't think a person charged for crime can be elected President of a nation. Guess what, the time for theocracy has gone and it is the time for southerners decide their own leader in up coming election. Moses Miyen, USA

What has become of SPLM/A? I am deeply perplexed by some of the political views of our intellectuals on matters that concern our dear home. Nowhere else on earth can we find South Sudan a place we all call home. Indeed it is our ancestral home!! Unless we forget history and set our eyes on short term gains over our dead who sacrificed a lot for our independence, freedom and justice then we can accept to be termed sub-humans and let things go the way it is now.

History that is supposed to be our teacher is being abandoned. History told us the reason why we have no schools, dispensaries, clean drinking water, paved roads, electricity and paved reads is the Jallaba rule over our home. With that rule our loved ones were killed for failure to renounce their natural identity, religion and above all refusal to allow them settle in our homeland freely so that they can disseminate Islamism and Arabism amongst our people down to the rest of Black Africa. With arrows and bows we put a halt to those ideals of Jallaba means of imperialism. How can today yesterdays enemy be a genuine friend? Imagine Bashir to claim that he is now ready to bring development development to South? Has he abandoned NCP policy now? Why is he not supported by Salah Gosh, Mustapha Ismail and their likes instead of Joseph Lagu and Bona Malwal? Has the blood of those Southerners who died in 1992 in Juba dried for him to go around claiming what he wants to do the victims of Jallaba atrocity just close to the tomb of ex- great African statesman Dr John Garang.

Yesterday he claimed he opened the resumption of rail link between Babanusa and Wau. Is that a developmental priority for us? It is there because they strategically plan to use it for ferrying armament for the work they did not finish. So is also the Unity road that they are working to finish between Kosti and Juba.

We need democracy amongst us in its true sense and not hand picked people to represent the common man. The use political bureau in selecting those not chosen by the people is by far undemocratic and it sends bad message to people. Worse still is an example of a governor hand picked by SPLM PB endorsing Bashir openly. What has become of SPLM/A?   Bismark Bura, Australia

Bona Malual being fooled by Bashir Mr. Malual, you could as well be fooled by Beshir and his cliques who want to find way out of the international indictment and who with all possibility will use that legitimacy to turn against the CPA and referendum. What makes you so certain that Beshir will keep his words?

To remind you, in recent weeks, Beshir said he is ready to protect Islamic state in the Sudan. in the same vein, he is hoping for southerners to vote for unity under an Islamic state? Egyptians had wanted to test Khartoum's reactions when they alluded to the problem of Islam in national politics and how this is responsible for south Sudan's secession. Beshir talks fondly of Ingaz [Islamic salvation] that brought him to power in 1989 and that shows contradictions in all conceivable manners.

The whole truth that southerners need to know is that Beshir is playing politics against the indictment and to lure southerners in legitimizing him in to power, after which he could find anchor to de-legitimize the CPA! Bona Malual, should also know, Beshir did not give us the CPA. we worked for it, and we shall protect it under Beshir or any other Arab fanatics.

We shall vote for reality and ideals we believe embodies our future. As per now, the north itself has people, Fur, Nubians, Funj and Beja who distaste Islam in politics and Khartoum hold their position contemptuous.

Please, Beshir has done a lot of damage to south Sudan through Islamic fundamentalism compared to many before. Rengo Gyyw Rengo, Jr, South Sudan

Akol Paul, an NCP Saboteur in the SPLM PB I have been following keenly the erroneous comments made by Mr. Akol pertaining to independent candidates in the last few months. As reported by sudantribune on January 27, 2010, “Youth League and member of the party’s Political Bureau, Akol Paul Kordit, announced on Tuesday that the party would not allow any of its members to stand as independent candidates.” He repeated this again, on the SPLM official launching of elections campaign by saying with utter disgust that, “how can one contest as independent candidate while the South is not yet independent?”
To me, this is a total disregard of peoples’ choice by the SPLM. They have undermined the principles of democracy on which platform they have been campaigning and waging war of liberation, for the last 27 years. To make matters worse, Kiir has allowed an NCP agent, Akol Paul, to wreck the peoples’ party from within. He is a recent recruit in the SPLM who made his way through to the SPLM highest organ, the SPLM Political Bureau, as a result of his corrupt political intrigues. By the time most of these so-called independent candidates were organizing troops in the bushes of New Sudan, Paul Akol was in Khartoum, organizing rallies for Popular Defense Forces on the streets. When these comrades were chanting, SPLA OYEE! to boost their soldiers morale, Akol Paul was loudly chanting ‘ALLAHU AKBAR,’ and death to the infidels in a highly charged Mujahedeen rally. Today, he is claiming to be a genuine member of SPLM and dismissing others as dissidents.
Inherently, Akol is a reactionary within the SPLM party and he is resisting and obstructing democratic changes within the SPLM. Moreover, he is clandestinely working on terms of capitulation with the peoples’ enemy, the National Congress Party.
Mr.Akol, South Sudanese want to assure you today that such inflammatory statements needs not to be made by you, but by genuine members of the party, who had supported wholeheartedly, the peoples’ party and movement, SPLM/A. Remember, these comrades have never stepped foot in Khartoum since the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement on the 9th of January 2005 and are for total liberation of South Sudan. They will be the first to command troops if war broke out today. They have been engaging the people’s enemy in all theatres of war in New Sudan. The likes of Dau Aturjong, George Athor, Chol Gai Arou and Alier Ayom just to name a few, have contributed immensely to our liberation struggle. You should not be demonizing them in the eyes of Southerners. Don’t deny our heroes their democratic rights.
To maintain our unwavering support for the SPLM, the SPLM chairman, Salva Kiir, needs to fire this naïve and treacherous boy immediately and replace him with a democratically elected youth leader. In addition to that, the chairman in collaboration with SPLM Secretary General, Pagan Amum need to convene a National Youth Conference so that a legitimate youth leader is elected and who is going to be in a position to extend respect to our veteran freedom fighters, the bulk of them being independent candidates. Further abetted, Akol Paul will extend his gruesome attack on most senior members of the movement- Salva Kiir,Riek Machar and Wani Igga. It will be prudent to dehorn him at an earlier stage before he will inflict irreparable damage to the movement. Garang Lual, Juba

The Candidacy of Lt. General George Athor It is not late for the Independent Candidate Lt. General George Athor Deng to make a quick turn from being a leader to the manager. It was not long ago when Mr. Athor ordered his SPLA soldiers to wage a killing of Nuer civilians during what he called a disbarment phase. John F. Kennedy once said, “Forgive your enemies, but do not forget their names”. I believe this is the problem to Mr. Athor among the Lou Nuer communities in Jonglei state. Not to mention or talk about his other past and careless military actions, Mr. Athor and his supporters should educate the citizens of Jonglei State of how they are going to manage not to lead since we are tired of the innocent killings. I know a lot of the supporters have argued that, Mr. Athor will be good at restoring peace and prosperity in the state of Jonglei as a response to prove the saying that says; “set a thief to catch a thief”. This is not going to work this way and as a concerned citizen, I expect more out of whoever our next governor would be. We should at least have an understanding of politics as not just being a game but what comes and goes with it. I personally appreciated those who have called it “risky” for our Independent candidate to resigned his current seat and run for the governorship. As both a leader and manager, you should at least have steadiness in your thoughts and actions; Mr. Athor has been going back and forth about the party; of which, I think will pinpoint him among his supporters.

The most common perception that leaders are born, not made may be true to some extent because many people display some intrinsic traits right from birth, which put them in the position where they are looked up as leaders. I agreed that a person’s authoritativeness, confidence in speeches and actions and the ability to handle crisis without panic would be considered some of the most effective leadership qualities, which sets people apart from the crowd. If I were to votes, I would base my voting decision on the above qualities of a leader to make the right judgment between the current Governor Kuol Manyang and Mr. Athor Deng. Anyway, they are all leaders in one way or another but Jonglei state at the moment needs a situational leader who will be there to pick the problems the locals are struggling with. The candidates including the NCP picks have done a lot, both positives and negatives to the citizens of Jonglei and the choice of the people must be made available without cause. PEACE IN THE GREATER STATE OF JONGLEI. Thon Gai Thiong, Schweinfurt, Germany

Yes to Al-Bashir If He Can Honor Self-determination: Dear Southerners (Junubin), at last the voice of wisdom has spoken through the savvy veteran politician, Hon. Bona Malwal. Take him seriously and the South Sudan shall achieve its independence peacefully; ignore his elderly and experienced message and you will regret to get your independence by war. Even the SPLM PB candidate, Yasser Saeed Arman have already declared it publicly that he should be elected so that the Sudan can remain united. To hell with Arman and his unity appeal! If electing Omer Al Bashir can bring separation in accordance with the CPA provisions and with peace, then let Southerners go for him in the elections boxes. This is where the sole interest of the South should lie even if it means electing a devil who can respect our desire. Dr. James Okuk

George Athor will win Reply to my brother, Lual B Nyuon in Australia Your opinion may sound good to you but there is something I want to correct. The fact that George Athor is taking political risk that is something query. What political risk are you talking about? Kuol has had enough of power. George must contest and may I tip you that he is going to win overwhelmingly unless there are riggings which every body knows would be the last resort for the SPLM. George is a true and more SPLM than any body and he will remain so. Kuol with his team must bade farewell. Peter Pal Chol, Khartoum

Kirr should be very careful. Referendum 2011 will not be done in parliament as he said. It will be a grave mistake altogether at this point! Referendum will be done by vote by Southerners themselves in the South as it has been part of the principles in the peace accord signed in Kenya in 2005. Southerners are not well united. Some Southerners are not well informed what to be done in CPA. Some Southerners are totally adamant on division of Sudan between South and North. Kirr should be very careful! Taking advices from international community will put South on the brink of an abyss! Chief Abiko, USA

Good Hope from Change of failed GoSS Leadership: Brother Tut Gatwech, your point of explanation (not point of correction) is well taken. However, an achieved peace talks without signing the deal finally is like playing an excellent football match without scoring any goal after all. The team who score a goal even if they did not play well are always the champions. The fact that Joseph Kony failed to show up to sign the final deal unlike what Dr. John Garang and Mr. Othman Taha did in Nyayo stadium of Nairobi in 2005, is also a good judgment that Dr. Riek Machar failed to score the expected goal. I was Dr. Riek fan, and of course I went  away disappointed and defeated after the end of his game with the LRA and its fans or call them peace spoilers. Remember that what we are using here are just analogies to prove a point; they may not apply to a real situation accurately. Thus, even if we graduate Dr. Riek from a player to a referee in the same field of match, still the basic fact remains; he was not a successful referee because the match did not end well as the players refused to acknowledge each other's goals at the end. The whole affair ends up as a joke and waste of time, energy and resources even if 10% of public monies was under the custody of the GoSS.
 
Independence of South Sudan in 2011 shall not come by a miracle if the present government is a mess. And it is not wise and strategic at all for Dr. Riek to sit on the shit of another leader because he will find himself dirty and smelling too. Yes, patience is a virtue but not always, because when many things are running bad, especially with the governance and leadership of the people, it is bad to pretend on patience. I hope we are understanding each other here. Thanks dear brother Gatwech, son of the Country. Keep up your good work and let’s hope for the best from the genuine change we need in the South, championed by Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin, starting right now until the bright future arrives. Dr. James Okuk.

Dr. Machar is not to blame directly for LRA Hi Dr. James Okuk. There is something I want to correct from your article which has fallen short of your expected analytical skill. From the best of my knowledge as someone who was reading every article posted on Sudantribune website about the LRA peace talks in Juba, the money spent during the talks could not be termed as a wastage by Dr. Riek Machar.

First of all, Dr. Machar negotiated the peace talks very successfully to the end of the negotiations. There was relative peace because of the effort during the talks. Several protocols were signed between Ugandan government and LRA since 2006 up to 2008. The Final Peace Agreement document was compiled and what remained was a ceremony for the signature of President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and Joseph Kony of LRA.

Unfortunately, Joseph Kony refused to show up during the signing day. He alleged that some SPLM/A officials/GOSS officials and other friends of his informed him that Dr. Machar and Museveni had a secret deal and would arrest him on that day or when he is in Kampala and hand him over to the ICC. He listened to these peace spoilers from within and from without and refused to sign.

So, looking at the unfortunate incident, it would be unfair to blame the situation on Dr. Machar. He did mediate the talks to the end! Even if Kony were to change positively today he would have just signed it without any further negotiations. It is done!!!

What if Dr. John Garang was indicted by the ICC and some officials in the Sudan government and other international friends with the aim to spoil peace told him of the secret deal between Omer Bashir and General Lazarus Semboyo (Mediator) to arrest him during the signing or hand him over to ICC once he is in Khartoum. Do you think Garang would have signed that CPA?

And if Garang in the last day refused to sign the CPA, would you blame the failure on General Lazarus Semboyo (the successful mediator) and call his efforts his direct wastage of money? Please let us keep being fair judges!

Again, if you didn’t read those posted reports about the financial sources of LRA talks, 90% of the funding came directly from foreign countries. It was not meant for South Sudan either and without the LRA peace talks the funds wouldn’t come to South Sudan for the projects you were talking about. If GOSS could not do development just because of the 10% contribution to LRA peace talks budget, then don’t dream of the 90% of LRA budget because it was not for South Sudan.

It would be unfair to criticize somebody who has successfully mediated the talks, but the supposedly signatures could not show up on the signing day.

And don’t forget that GOSS’ initiative to bring peace to Uganda is a very important strategic move in the interest of the people of South Sudan. Blame the peace spoilers who were jealous about any thing to do with Dr. Machar’s success.

As for Dr. Lam Akol, only time will tell and we have only five weeks left for the Presidential elections. Tut Gatwech, USA

Call for voting in Salva Kiir in the coming elections is baseless. We can not spare him and will vote out other SPLM candidates. The selection process of SPLM candidates had shown us how far is the SPLM political Bureau from democracy. It's now too late to reform this deformed system, because SPLM has already lost the trust of the citizens of Southern Sudan, but a lesson learned so far is; Don't work against the people's wishes. P. Akoldid, Sudan

General failure of SPLM party It seems our SPLM party is soon going to face a lot of challenges from the other political parties in South and Sudan in general because of their failure to bring South Sudan civilians together. Death has become the common thing in the South between the tribes and the government do kept quite without interfering to intervene in this critical situation. Therefore, you can see them now they are day and night focusing of the election and they turn their blind eyes to the crises which are happening on the local community in rural areas. In Rumbek there is a tribal conflict which is going on there and as well as Yirol. Meanwhile the government has never taken any initiative to rescue the lives of the people in those areas. Michael Aleu, Aweil

When did Clement Konga become SPLM loyalist? Right Mr. Barach Dau. I am an SPLM/A cadre but I am so disappointed with the decision reached and endorsed by the so called SPLM PB. The independent candidates for governorships are  right and we all want to stand by them. I want to start with the said CES SPLM loyalist. When did Clement Wani Konga become an SPLM loyalist? It is fallacious. How can SPLM PB trust Clement just within a fraction of four years; to the extent of disowning the SPLM/A diehards? Clement has ruined CES economy and its people. Our president talks of taking the towns to the people. How can this happen when every person needs to buy the basic needs for life, food, have shelter security and the likes (refer to the Maslow's hierarchy of needs.)

CES workers have now gone to six months without salaries. Where did Clement get his money to buy DT-Yamaha motorcycles for campaigns? Is this not the same money that could have been used as salaries? Yet CES is one of the richest states in the South. On 1st March 2010 Clement said if voted in he will pay workers their salaries. This sounds malicious and direct that he has used the money for campaigns. We in CES are tired of this man called Clement. Or unless the leadership of the SPLM are behind this unwarranted mistreatment of the people of CES by him and would want to contribute to the same downfall of CES people?

I also want to comment on a statement uttered by one of the senior members of the SPLM that we should vote for the candidate nominees of the SPLM otherwise how will the SPLM leadership cooperate? This is wrong and dangerous to us the beneficiaries of the States' government. Are governors going to serve the top leadership's opinions/needs or the masses on the ground? I strongly and kindly advice the President and loyalist PB members to reconsider these independent candidates as SPLM members after and even before the elections because many are going to win whatsoever. If the incumbent governor, Clement is promising heaven and earth to those who would want things to move as if there are no laws Wani Adalla, Sudan  

President Bashir shall miss the Election while on unexpected political visits! Let's look at a timeless Sudanese president, his recent announced political campaign visit to some South-Sudan towns is out of the plan. His visit is scheduled to the following cities, Juba, Capital of the South; Torit, the state capital of Eastern Equatoria; Yambio, the state capital of Western Equatoria; Yei and Magwi counties.
Bashir’s statement, "Call for Peace and Development" as the aim for the visit is too late, instead he should keep that money for his own family, which shall be soon in exile when he misses presidential seat.
It is too late for the out-going president to call for peace and development in a month to go! Bashir is in a squeezed time known as timeless president. His visit shall cause him to miss the election in April which will never be adjourned no matter somewhat!

Calling for Peace and Development should be left to Yasir Arman the expected next winning presidential candidate. Kuer Dau Apai in Sydney-Australia

Why vote for a genocidal president? The question voters must ask themselves when they go to ballot boxes come April, is whether they will vote to protect the candidate, or to protect the Country. Obviously, those who will vote for Omar Al-Bashir are protecting the candidate; in contrast, those who will vote for Cde. Yasir Arman are protecting the Country. This is because we all know that President Al-Basher is a fugitive of the International Criminal Court (ICC) for killing innocents’ Sudanese citizens. Recently, over 550,000 lives have been vanished in Western region of Darfur, and about estimated 2.5 Million killed in the South before the agreement was signed. So let us face it, why should Sudanese people vote for genocidal’ President? Why should we choose through ballot someone who thinks that the only solution for domestic debate on the citizen rights or an intellectual disagreement is a killing? In reality, with uncertain future ahead of us, Omar Al-Bashir isn’t a right leader for this critical time. In fact, those who nominated him for this post are aware with fact that the man doesn’t have new ideas to solve Sudan’s problems that he himself created. He is nominated by his party to use the executive power to protect himself and his followers from the ICC’s persecution. Ring Machar, Sudan

Kiir's the known devil we vote for Deng T Liem was smart on Yasir Arman's case but a supporter of Lam Akol I quite concur with your position of withdrawing Yasir Sayid Arman in order to give southern Sudanese a position in secession. This is because Yasir is a unionist as you put it and will achieve his objectives if allowed to climb the ladder.
Lam Akol is a man who has reigned the south for so many years beginning in 1991 and would not be allowed by the southern Sudanese to lead the country because he is another unionist.
Kiir is a devil we know and deserves the position of presidency in the south. John Garang Akot, Bor

SPLM-DC is exerting efforts but all in vain. The reason to why this is in vain is because that the leader of DC himself is not fit to be a nation leader as he used to point out his hands at the failure of the southern government and he was once there in this government. As such he did not say anything when he was in power at the Foreign ministry but now after being laid off, this is where he came to know the mismanagement of the GOSS and that seems as if he is right voice of the south and completely nothing. He is wasting his time as he is marked with many signs of misconduct of his rebellion and the formation of his party. Shame on you greedy leader Aburoma Thiik, Sudan

Present Scenario fails united New Sudan. My brother Ogilo. With due respect to your article prospecting the SPLM to win the national presidency in the name of its candidate Yasir Saeed Arman and thus the revival of the political course for a united New Sudan, I would say this is an impossible guess. Please there is no way the NCP of Omer Al-Bashir will lose this election! They will not afford to lose it! This is not because they are popular and will get the voluntary votes a party or leader would need to win. They will rig it!

Please I advise you to study the past history of NCP; how it has been in power for more than twenty years now since 1989, making it the longest serving political party ever in Sudan's history. And study how many elections it got involved in and the results. NCP always survives either using outright militarized dictatorship or false democratic elections.

NCP will rig the elections even if Sadiq Al-Mahdi and Yasir Arman get more votes than Bashir. NCP can turn 7% it got into 70%, and this will happen under the watchful eyes of any observer, either international, national or local. Forget about Yasir Arman winning the elections.

If Al-Bashir will feel that for whatever reasons it will make it difficult to rig and win the elections, he will postpone it until opportunity to win it (call it rig it successfully) knocks at his door.

The coming election to him is just about him winning and getting more legitimacy to use for bargain against the ICC's indictment. It is not about a democratic transformation process during which a peaceful transfer of power is witnessed as called for in the CPA. We need to understand that!

The so-called unionists have no way to kill the aspiration of the South Sudanese for independence if they believed that their so-called "New Sudan" would be realized through Yasir Arman taking over the Khartoum palace.

Bashir would be ready to declare a State of Emergency (SE) in the Sudan if he feels his seat is threatened and send CPA to its coffin like Nemeiri did to Addis Ababa agreement while the South would be ready to declare a Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI).

The building up scenario as of now points towards maintaining the status quo and the disintegration of the Sudan at least into North and South before Darfur comes next. No way for the so-called united New Sudan! Gatkuoth Deng, USA

Are the contestants serving the people? As Sudan approaches the chosen season for elections, many are beginning to worry about the results and how things are going to turn out. I believe that the trauma of war has created so much fear in many Sudanese that bold and courageous individuals have gotten confused to the point where they sort of lost the chance to participate in the contests to win posts in the parliaments and higher government institutions.

It is a shame that many are seeking positions to advance and elevate self-interest rather than serve in the realm of governance and national development with a noble cause and purpose. It is known in Sudan that people know what to say, but they are often incapable of doing what needs to be done. Although thousands profess to be believers, lack of faith in doing what is the best continues to persist and lack of development and fundamental change remains the strongest  and undefeatable challenge.

Mr El Bashir has been the president of Sudan for 20 years now. He is still running for the presidency of Sudan to rule for more years to come. Other parties in the North have announced their respected candidates. The Oma Party is headed and represented by Mr. Sadiq Al Mahdi a very familiar face in the politics of Sudan. Mr. Al Turabi has nominated a Southern Sudanese to run for the presidency of Sudan.

SPLM has nominated Mr. Yasser Arman who would like to be seen as the Obama of Sudan at these critical times of the country history. In Southern Sudan Mr. Lam Akol and Mr. Salva Kiir are expected to fight for the post of president in the autonomous region of South Sudan. I am sure all these leaders and their parties have been pretty well-informed about how to work as leaders over their constituencies.

They are all educated and are strong politicians. They have wealth of experience and the wealth of resources as well. The question is not about whether they are competent, but the question is about how does each of them intend to rule and govern the people of Sudan ? Whether in the government of the national unity or in the government of Southern Sudan. Darfur is also a part of Sudan that is seeking a solution for its predicament that started in 2003.

In order for peace to really be comprehensive, the problem of Darfur has to be addressed as well. In my opinion I would like to mention that the person who will bring about the needed change will be a person with the spirit of service. A person who would like to serve others rather than himself. Desired leadership means serving others, rather than the opposite.

When you are a leader you can receive services from your people, but they also look for services from you as their leader. Your subjects if you are a king would need to trust you. Also a president needs to be trusted so that he can work with confidence and optimism. The key to becoming a good president in Sudan or Southern Sudan is to embrace humility. There is a difference between humility and humiliation.

A humble leader is the one who succeeds. He does not give room to arrogance and pride. He does not allow pessimism to affect his work, rather he remains humble and optimistic. Many of our citizens are very pessimistic. They are not optimistic. They do not believe that we can accomplish great things if we stand committed to the cause and remain strong in the struggle.

My question to all these contestants is are you humble ? Are you willing to serve us the people of Sudan ? If you are arrogant and proud and believe in your own skills, you will end up serving yourself and entrusting you with leading us will be a mistake that we will never want to make again in the future. I pray that a humble leader emerges and takes charge so that Sudan is placed in the right direction. Moses B. Mathew, Sudan

Beware of empty election promises Could I know how many SPLM-DC candidates are standing for elections in the North especially for the seat of President of the Republic and Governors? If not, then I can say Dr. Lam has an agenda behind talking all the issues relating to GoSS.

Secondly, How many investors has Dr. Lam brought in the South while serving as Foreign Minister in Sudan or how many schools, hospitals and water points has he constructed in his constituency as MP for his area? If there really tangible answers to these question then I will believe Lam is a national figure.

If I may ask also, who implements the CPA? GoSS or GoNU? Because as far as I know GoNU implements the agreement since NCP and SPLM make the biggest ruling powers in Sudan. Why can't Dr. Lam ironically tell NCP, "I want you to demarcate the N-S border ASAP" These are words which proves one's loyalty and side in Sudan.

Anyway, besides all the challenges, I need Southerners to give us a break! When you visit Juba, Malakal, Aweil or Rumbek of 1980/1990, you will honestly have a reason to say GoSS has done something. I guess before 1980, nobody can challenge Sudanese President but today we can do it. These are true signs of progress, my dear Southerners. Let's not be rallied with empty promises that will temper with our destiny. Malish John Peter, Sudan

Unwise decision by SPLM to disown independent candidates The SPLM Political Bureau has made unwise decision to disown independent candidates in Southern Sudan and this is a great lost ground of democratic formation in South Sudan, it is also harming advocacy of SPLM for preaching to have a New Sudan country which will be guided with democracy.

SPLM was a hope to allow full democratic system in all corners expected in Sudan. All those independent candidates were liberators of the struggle and I hope that struggle which SPLM/A aimed is unfinished because Referendum is on the way. Justice, Democratic, Equality and Fairness had been the logo that SPLM focused on since the CPA was signed in 2005 - before the CPA was not signed, SPLM usually promise to compensate everyone in search of getting New Sudan as independent country out from Khartoum government regime. 

SPLM leadership must also note that democracy they dream could not be put according to their driving in Southern Sudan as well as in Sudan as a whole -  democracy is an individual choice that cannot be hijacked in the  interest of particular groups or persons.  

Time of presidential decree has gone. Using presidential decree, you can impose the man of your choice to people and now people are dismissing presidential decree through choice of people's interest.

There is no democracy that could come without people who oppose some part of any ruling government policy.

I wish SPLM will revise it decision immediately to reown her independent candidates because other political parties will benefit from the crisis of SPLM. I hope we shall continue with this phase of democracy to ban presidential decrees which brings unacceptable people to rule a majority of wise people. Manyang Mayom is a Sudanese young journalist.

A man (Dr. Lam Akol) pulling his community to the pool of fire Thank you dear Gatcharwearbol. I congratulate you twice because of your well directed and contrasting document on the two leaders Lam Akol Ajawin and Salva Kiir Mayardit. The two leaders have to think twice before they start competing for leadership because they are born in critical period and have to serve their people in critical period.
   I think Dr. Lam Akol will never rule southern Sudan although he is a PhD holder. Riek Machar is  a PhD holder too and he is doing a lot to people of Southern Sudan now and he is so patient to claim the presidency. Does it mean Riek Machar is not a leader? Or is he not serving his people in negotiating and monitoring CPA in the North? While he is in Khartoum has Lam helped Dr. Riek and President Kiir one time in that " Re-negotiation" and monitoring of CPA? Not at all, because this gentleman is serving his own pocket and supporting Arab's ideology of Unity which turn south Sudanese and other marginalize people to be second class citizens in their own Country. Can that work to me? Not at all, because when I see the infrastructure, human development and political participation of southern Sudan in the same Country then, there is nothing that reflect my living together with northern regime.
  Therefore, Dr. Lam will have to remain in the north and when he will realized his homeland with his people together, then we will welcome him back to south and he will lead at that time when he changes himself from his Arab face and ideals, not now. Ariik Chol Ariik, CANADA.

Time of War is Different from that of Peace: Another voice of wisdom and prophesy has spoken through the article of Dominic Woja Maku in addition to the previous voice of Dr. Justin R. Ambago. It is time for the people to practice the power given them by electoral law accordingly to vote out the bad leaders who have messed up the South for five years now after the signing of the CPA in 2005.

Even if an electoral nominee was so courageous and firm during the military guerrilla life in the Bush but have never shown any good leadership after the end of war and entrance into democratic peaceful civilian life, he should be voted out without any fear so that a right leader can be given a chance to try his best to serve the people in the South with timely services, security, transparency and impartiality. War time is different from peacetime. War heroes of military combats are not necessarily peace heroes of democracy and development. Even sociology has laid it down as a theory that the war heroes are never successful leaders in peacetime because the way peace is supposed to be conducted is totally different from the way of war management.

Thus, it is time for the SPLA/M war heroes to heed to this theory because of its truth on the current SPLM leadership in the South. It is better for them if they remain in military barracks where they could do better when it comes to safeguarding the South from any possible external encroachment. They should get convinced that war is not peace. For the South to become a viable state it needs competent leaders who don't compromise with those who embezzle public monies that are meant for delivery of services and other peace dividends.

There is no waiting up to 2011 to deal with bad leaders in the South; it has to start now in April 2010 so that it continues when 2011 arrives. We have to start voting in the right leaders and continue voting them in courageously and even with risks from those who don't want to leave public offices while they have proven themselves a failure to lead South Sudan. Long live the voice of the people even in an environment of unfair and dictated elections. Dr. James Okuk

Lual's education dangerous to citizens Like brother like brother! Lual Achuek Lual is just a copy of his greedy brother Dut Achuek Lual who during his reign in 1994 as the chairman of Lobone II displaced camp in Eastern Equatoria, allegedly stole special foods items meant for malnourished kids like flour, oil, milk, for sale in Uganda. His bad habit of stealing from dying kids was put to an end by the effort of Lobone II women who went angrily to his house and tried to burn it only to be restrained by soldiers. They sang nasty songs about his greed. This coward called Lual Achuek Lual who never shot a single bullet against the enemy is now tearing apart communities of Wangulei Payam who have peacefully coexisted together for centuries. What a shameful act by a doctorate degree holder! His doctorate degree earned while hiding from war in London is turning disastrous like Riek Machar’s, with Riek’s better because his was Nuer vs Dinka. Lual Achuek Lual education is just proving dangerous to the citizens of Wangulei just like his greedy and selfish brother proved to the dying kids of Twic & Bor in general in 1994. John Barach, Australia

Immature behaviors lead to apathetic scapegoating.The Ayual-Daucek clashes around Wangulei Payam in Twic East County were actually caused by the very scapegoating, wacking, talkative, no self controlled folks such as Chol Pajieth Bul. The provocative sections of Ayual community sparked the conflict in the first place and would always want as usual to look around for people to point fingers of blame at.

It is a typical way of people who hate to face their responsibilities. Mr. Bul Pajieth, humans do not only have rights, they also must bear their corresponding responsibilities. Crying like babies, looking around for someone to point fingers of blame at is not a mature way of thoughts.

Reconsider your attitude and the attitude of your community then blame anyone or institutions you want to scapegoat. Blaming the commissioner, SPLM/A, governor, police, the 7 judges and Dr. Lual won't change a thing. It may make you sound victimized or the aggrieved party at Wangulei and your attempt to assign your own guilt to others makes you more guilty, immature, irresponsible and a hopeless escapist. Aaron Yong, USA

Money can Buy everything: Manyok Biar, I can't tell you why everyone whom you mentioned seem to be against Ayual, but I'm pretty sure some of the people are involved in this marginalization tactics. First of all, governor Kuol Manyang heard the news, but commissioner Diing didn't report how the conflict started to him formally. Duot Ajang Duot, and his team were given what has been done by commissioner Diing and your uncle Dr. Lual. Awai Ajang was allegedly given 30.000 Sudanese pounds.

I don't want to waste my time debating this issue with you, but let me know whether your great-grand parents had ever claimed these places before? Guar itself (where Dr. Lual has dug the well) was the old home of Ajak Kur Ayuel's mother (Guar). Tell me whom that place belonged to you in your section. Pajieth was the home of my great-grand father, Pajieth Awer Nyichuk, and you can simply identify this from my father's name. Explain to me if anyone from your section has the same name like my father? Remember my great-grand father Pajieth didn't allow his daughters to bear the name, so that's why you can not get this name anywhere except Pan-Pajieth.

It is known in the history of Twic that Dachuek, and Awuliel have no Toch at all, so if Dachuek was having these places, then why your great-grand parents didn't claim them before? Are you telling the audience that this generation of Dachuek is more brilliant than the past generations? This is to justify to you that Dr. Lual's agricultural money influenced the outcome of the court, and that's why commissioner Diing and Duot Ajang adjourned the court ruling until Dr.Lual was back from Washington DC. Remember Diing met Dr. Lual in Bortown before the court outcome. Please stop joking. Chol Pajieth Bul, USA

GOSS can't intervene in Twic Dear Chol Pajieth, I agree with you that leaders like Dr Lual should care or work for the common good of Bor-Twic East citizens. However, I would like to tell you that it's not something that GOSS or GONU could involve with, it's the job of the state and county leadership. GOSS could be involved with something that includes tribal line, state to state problem but not within state. Mawien Deng, USA

Call off Dr. Lual's project Though the intentions for the agricultural project in Twic East was meant to eradicate hunger not in Twic East, Jonglei State, but the entire South Sudan region; I supposed it wise to call off the project until a thorough review to Dr. Lual's project is conducted since it will cause the bleeding of our loved ones. Nothing is really wrong with the project per se but the lack of educating the community itself.  This project would have brought down the record unemployment in the community but not lives as it turned out now.
John Junub, UK

Thumb up here! for Dr. Justin Ramba. "Too Late For Taha's Envy" on a statement said in Egypt by Vice President, Taha, there is no darkness darker than the darkness the South have been in for almost 100 years now - due to a twist, turn, hatred and wrap-downs played by the North against the South as well as to the rest of the Country. Khartoum knows very well that South's referendum in 2011 is a referendum to many oppressed regions in Sudan. To hell with the North come 2011 and we will say this in chorus - in thousands villages and on thousands of streets in Southern Sudan. This article is just a job well done. Keep on writing on the same, Dr. Justin Ambago Ramba. Makuei Tor, USA

Don't waste time on Juba Southern Sudanese don't waste your precious time on Juba as being Capital for Southern Sudan. We are going find a new Capital for southern by 2012.
What's happening nowadays in Juba is legalized Kokoro by Bari tribe, not to confuse it with all Central Equatoria nationalities against all the southern nationalities because of their great presence in the Juba Town. The many other ethnicities came to Juba as their seat of GOSS in order to explore some business opportunities because of its large populations. The more Bari assumed that their land and other resources are being shared led to hatred of so-called land grabbers. The most hated nationalities are Dinka, Nuer and other Nilolitics due their huge presence in Juba.

However, Bari intellectuals and kokorists should bear in mind that Juba did not developed to such great extent, surpassing other nine capitals because of Bari's land richness or their ingenuity, but it is through these strangers or land-grabbers of nine states that make Juba a viable city in southern Sudan. During the British rules and their Arabs, hut taxes came as far as Bentiu areas, Awiel, Gorial, Wau, Raja, Malkal, Maridi, Yambio, Rubek, Tonj, Torit and many other resources collected by force by British and their allies from Southern Warriors such as the case of Aliab Dinka who led a revolt against Jalaba mumurs and their masters in 1889{Mahdi revolution} and again 1917-1921{Former Governor General of Mongalla province}who was killed by Aliab Dinka with seventeen officers and slaves as known as Equatorial Corps and north Sudanese. After their defeat by a combination forces of great Kon Anok, British resorted to plundering of Aliab Dinka Cattle, they took 10,000 heads of  cattle to Mongalla and then to Juba and used them as government assets. The Sudanese government after departure of colonial masters used meager resources of southern Sudan to develop Juba from 1956 to 1960s. Then came the Addis Ababa Agreement, all the resources of southern Sudan were used  to developed Juba city until the outbreak of civil from 1983 up to the time of Khartoum Peace Agreement 1996 in which Southern Sudan Coordinating Council, the de facto government of south prior to CPA. Gatkuoth Deang Bol, Nasir

Let's not abandon SPLM My view as an individual is we shouldn't abandon the SPLM before the Referendum of next year even if the dog is now representing it. Let's take a look at the time of  the War and now, there is a great difference. Lakes State will not loose the seats on SPLM tickets. Chol Maker Malual, South Sudan

I won't vote for the confusion of Dr. Lam For the case of GOSS-presidency, I don't think whether Dr. Lam who initiated Nasir Faction that almost brought the liberation struggle to its knees and again formed a militia and an NCP wing called SPLM-DC shouldn't frustrate the future of SOUTHERNERS. Therefore as somebody who loves to see
that our coming generations should be free and live independently will not vote for confusion in form of my brother, Dr. Lam but VOTE for the caring southerner who is Salva Kiir Mayardit. Majok, Sudan

Independent candidates are not SPLM members Mr. Omunu, your article, "Democracy deficit,' I think you have a point to argue about the democratic transformation and SPLM candidates selection process which were fraudulent according to you and have some irregularities according to SPLM SG. Nonetheless, you veered off the point and made erroneous analogy by going as far as comparing the SPLM South Sudan to the Islamic Republic of Iran. I think that was over-statement maybe due to personal grievances toward the party or adventure of appearing critical toward a system.
I do not know which country in the West you reside? But whatever or wherever that country is, I think you might have learnt what its means to be a member of the party and being an independent. You cannot be both at the same time, you may be an independent with certain ideological leaning but independent candidates do not belong to any party. So those who declared themselves independent from the SPLM must not belong to the SPLM anymore. I do not see why SG Pagan is cracking his head about them.
The the revolution that the SPLM fought and is leading is different from the Ayatollahs of Iran revolution and if you want me to respond to your article I will give you full account in the next issue. Aaron Yong. USA

Talk about the good and bad Did this website just by accident carry the SPLA/M name but is not with SPLA/M? Everywhere in life, there is a bad and good side. However, in a commentary if you're not a critic, you should compare both sides. How much SPLA/M achieved for south vs. setback? In my opinion the answer has no comparison especially if you look back just until CPA. Another thing I am surprised with the point on the weakness of Kiir but never talk about the weakness of Al Bashir. Nik Wol, USA

5-Years of CPA might have been a wasting time in the South!!! The SPLM Party in the south known as GoSS is getting closer to prove to the world the doubt that southerners could not manage their own nation when given them the freedom of self-determination as a South Sudan Nation. The SPLM flexibility in political activities is almost causing the confusion to the true loyalists of the party such as creating the vacuum for individuals to campaign independently while the party has not yet reached to the point of culmination. The strong and experienced politicians of the party must stay still to the reviewed critical decision made when addressing the public and political matters. The best dancer is someone who can manage to attract and/or capture the interest of the observers. How comes that the only party in the south fails to convince the southerners so as to avoid such decisions of the independent candidacy?
Southerners should have already learnt and experienced how to settle their own disputes in five years of CPA. It is a big challenge to the GoSS if they still expect their political issues to be resolved by the lawyers in the North. It could be a suicidal decision if a lawyer from the north settle the case of political agendas in favor of the SPLM-Party.
The message to the independent candidates, it would have been worthy/better and/or a society concerned if you had waited to campaign for such leadership positions after the final decision during the Referendum. Leadership is never lost.
The second message to the SPLM Party, the southerners took the gun in 1983 because of mistreatments, mismanagements, misrepresentations and all other negative attitudes played against the southerners by the Arabs’rules.
Let still keep our current leaders of GoSS in their positions with the objective that to take us to achieve the remaining parts of CPA instead of just pushing them away. Thank all by Kuer Dau Apai Sydney-Australia

It's up to you to interpret Kokora  Why are some south Sudanese so obsessed and desperate to grab properties, which under no circumstance do not belong to them? The properties in question are the utmost land of motherland Equatoria. For heavens sake, God has provided each nationality with land, they call home.
Development cannot be used as pretext of grabbing other people native land. What is so different in Juba that cannot be found in your area? For those tribal minded selfish individuals, talking about liberating Equatorians, could they go and see a psychiatrist, who will be in a better position to tell them which people in south Sudan are in need of  liberation.
You cannot claim of liberating others! ... You are the ones in need of 360 degree of mental and social liberation. Come on why not call a spade a spade?
Juba and its surroundings are better off without GOSS, for those with limited knowledge about this town should know. Keep your oil money in your states. John Yugu, Canada

Bari will miss share of revenues if City moved Dr. Alfred Lokuji, so what are you up to? Should the City be moved to another location or you want the GOSS to still remain hostage to the mercy of your community? When did the Physical infrastructure ministry of CES  become the Bari people? We all know it'is a manipulating thing for the South Sudanese.

One time I wrote about this subject, but I ceased to pursue it further because it was simply a wastage of energy and thoughts, the CE and the Bari people are those who are so much self-centered, not looking at what others have sacrificed for the city to be in Juba and how National resources are to be shared. Land in Juba is not any better than all the Lands in other parts of South Sudan where the city can fit very well with no daily nagging of the coined phrase 'Land Grabbing.'

I do not know where were you guys when that land was an open defecating ground by the Jalaba? You don't pose and ask where the current wealth of South Sudan is coming from, and the revenues shared equally among all states as if it showers from the skies not from the land?  Even skies have owners but they have to exercise responsibility and objectivity when it comes to resources.

I know we southerners like talking for our people even if they are on the wrong but one thing that Bari should know is that they do not know what they are rejecting and doing. They will come to regret when all come to behave like them by moving away that city from there, denying them any revenue that comes from any part of South Sudan and marginalizing you guys to the level you are doing to the rest.

You will feel the pain because that government that you have failed will have to be shared by all southerners in terms of employment because currently all drivers, cleaners, cooks and those Directors that go for funerals every day at the expense of Government work, even for deaths that they do not know, will equally give way to others.

What about all the benefits that come because of the city will all go, so it time for you you to think, for us we have shut up.

What a paranoiac and senseless community that even a self proclaimed Dr like you goes to a bogus site like Wikipedia to write a bogus article that does not carry any argument but simply copy and paste junks of information. Carry on, I blame people like Isaiah Abraham for wasting their time for some thing already decided and waiting for major issues to be settled but it will not take a day or month being wrangled about where the city should be, come after 2011. You brought us here but you have rejected the city, it will be you guys to decide on whether the City goes or stays-- one of two and any of the choices would not benefit you.

I would encourage the wise not to buy any land and enrich you guys, we lived in dews and rains to liberate this region for 22 years to earn these humiliations from sel-proclaimed Central Equatoria that denies every thing, even when they have 6 ministers out of the 24 ministers shared among the 10 states. They keep saying we are not part of the GOSS.

SHAME ON YOU AND your incompetent politicians who do no reflect on state of affairs of things like these. You deserve no words from me. David Char Akau

Bari Land: Beating the drums of division  Isaiah Abraham, Please write what you think will let Southern to advance rather than provoking the situation. What you have written is only in one angle. why don't you view things first in different dimensions then comment? Have you  ever make a research and come out with that finding?

If that is the situation Bari Community is behaving, what is your contribution toward the success of southern Sudan to move forward? I am sure your are beating drum for someone else, not in the favor of so called second class southerners as you called it. Richard Jada, India

Kiir and the Company are about to Enjoy Opposition Benches: Good Work from SPLM-DC Team under the competent leadership of Chairman Dr. Lam Akol and Secretary-General Eng. Charles Kisanga. It is just a matter of days for the people to vote out Salva Kiir as the worst president who have ever ruled the Southern Sudan and Vote in Dr. Lam Akol as the best possible president to rule the South.
 
Let SPLM SG, Pagan Amum Fret and Fur with his SPLM-DC Phobia. He and his failed Chairman will enjoy opposition back benches soon if not the retiring chairs at their homes in Australia and USA. Now the SPLM is running in the elections with two factions: Dr. Riek Faction with the SPLM-PC (Popular Candidates) on his side against Salva Kiir with SPLM-PB (Political Bureau) handpicked candidates. Surely, both of them are going to divide the votes of their few supporters and they shall all lose even if they try to campaign all for Salva Kiir.
 
Dear SPLM-DC and Alliance of South Sudan Political parties, keep up the flames of genuine change and surely the victory is certain because the people want to go forward rather than backward. Dr. James Okuk

Bravo to the SPLM for allowing Independent Candidates to contest independently. If in fact, the SPLM had made prudent decisions like this one in the past, I think the party's popularity should’ve been phenomenonal and taken over the whole Sudan. The reason why many people extremely dislike INGAZ/NIF is because it’s a totalitarian regime which imposes itself on people by force.
 SPLM officials on the other hand, has tried their best by preaching change to the people of south Sudan using those good sounding words like democratic transition while in fact its inner secret has just got revealed by Independent Candidates. It is good for SPLM Political Bureau to know that being a democratic government is not an easy thing. As British former Prime Minister Churchill used to say “democracy is not a good word, but there is no other word to replace it.”  This is factual if you think critically about it because it allows ordinary people to have power and express their concerns freely. And if that happened, people especially government officials will have to reason first on to what they’re going to say in public before they can say it.
Honesty matters here we don’t need contradictory statements where government officials say something today and tomorrow say something else, no.  That is Jellaba double talk.

Finally to our Secretary General Pagan Amum, please don’t rush to the media and tell us your opinions which are not of the party, we respect your position so be consistent when you speak to us and tell us the facts not fictions. Choul D., USA

From Warning to Endorsement of Independent Candidates: What a funny SPLM elections game without basic democratic rules: the independent SPLM candidates like the wife of Dr. Riek Machar running against the dependent SPLM candidates like Taban Deng when they are both from the same party. Why don’t we just call the game: Popular SPLM candidates running against the PB handpicked SPLM candidates. Why waste our time with SPLM party rules and procedures if they can just be dishonored in a second so as to allow the rule of opportunism to supercede everything.
 
How can such a politcal party that does not respect the rule of law be respected and entrusted with another mess in power. Surely, with SPLM ever-messy funs in the South, wonders shall never cease!!! Let’s wait and see how both the independents and the dependents of the SPLM shall be declared winners by the SPLM after the elections.
 
God of democracy, have mercy and save us from SPLM hell and free us from the democratic mess of SPLM Polical Bureau. Is there a value of unity of a party that does not respect democratic principles and dictates? If I were Pagan Amum I will resign from such a contradictory politcal party and leave it to fall from its own misgivings like an overripen fruit. Dr. James Okuk

Salva Kiir and Riek donated six vehicles to six paramount chiefs of Unity State When you run out of political ideas and strategies to keep you afloat and every window snap shut, the only option is outright bribery. As seen elsewhere in sub-Sahara Africa, Kiir Mayardit and Dr. Riek Machar have embarked on their African past and present colleagues' practices. This is what the late Bongo of Gabon, Troitich of Kenya, Dos Santos of Angola, Museveni of Uganda, Zenawi of Ethiopia, Afreworki of Eritrea, Mugabe of Zimbabwe, and the late Sseseko of Zaire among others are/were known for.

Instead of using the booming oil revenue for development for all as it was in the case of Gabon in the early and late 1970's to early 1980's, the late leader used it to buy loyalty from the well-placed few chiefs, politicians, and elites to the detriment of the masses. To Gabon's leader, there was no reason to invest in local manufacturing and agriculture to boost the economy. He was too obssessed with how to keep his leadership.

The result? 40+ years of Mr. Bongo's  presidency and when he passed away a year or two ago, he left behind a dirt poor Gabon, worser than it was under the French colonial rule. Good luck Southerners! Deng Akuei de Garang, USA

Hypocrisy and conspiracy in UN Why if South and North Korea separated into two nations more than fifty years ago nobody expressed skepticism but today if Southern Sudanese express the same nationalistic feeling, everybody seem to have a say how the history of Sudan should be shaped? Who is going to dwell in that unity which people seem to favor?  Is it the UNO Secretary General or Jean Ping or French foreign Secretary? It is malice and nonsense. Who does not need freedom? Southern Sudanese need freedom as other people do; they need liberty, freedom, fraternity and equality.
We are tired of being involved in the war that they have nothing to do with. We do not need to carry a wrong passport which reads: YOU CAN GO ALL COUNTRIES EXCEPT ISRAEL. The world should be sensible and understanding when it comes to the issues of southern Sudan. The solution to the problems between the South and the North of Sudan is separation. The world should not act like the rich fool. Southern Sudanese are no longer to be deceived with kisses; we know the damage that was already done in that illusive unity. The world must know that southern Sudan is neither Biafra in Nigeria nor Katanga region in Congo, her people will never accept the same kind of mob justice that the above two regions were subjected to, when they expressed their nationalistic sentiments forty years ago. They will be in standby to face any opposing groups in case the world miscarriages the upcoming referendum.
The time has come, the cloud is coming up in the south and the south wind is blowing, why does the world not detect this? The issue of the south is not going to be decided by ‘speeches and resolutions of majorities, but by blood and iron’ if the other options failed.

There is no point of pretending here, I want to tell the UNO Secretary General, Mr. Ban Kimoon, that the extravagant comment  he made some days ago about the viability of the unity of Sudan had hurt us and we will never forgive him!  It is perfidious and treasonous. The issue of Southern Sudan cannot be decided by anybody, but only by the common man. Hands off Southern Sudan, leave it alone. Daniel Juol Nhomngek, a High School student in Kampala Uganda

Comrade Yasir Araman+ free and fair elections= President of the Republic of New Sudan I have no doubt in my mind that the incumbent president of Sudan will  not be the president of this country if there are going to be free and fair elections come April 2010. This is for a simple and logical reason that Sudanese people have suffered more than enough under the current regime since its inception by coup in June 1989.

The majority of the people of Sudan need change of system. People need democratic system which is accountable to the people. No single minded person would love to live under oppression like what had happened and continue to happen under the current regime since 1989 up to date.

The people of Sudan would therefore vote for someone who would want to see everybody free and happy in this country regardless of race, religious or political affiliation. This has not happened and will not either happen under the current totalitarian regime of the National Congress Party. The National Congress Party has never known anything like freedom or liberty in its code of conduct. Racial and religious discrimination are the best known way of dealing with people in NCP’s code of conduct. Oppression is the rule of dealing with those who do not think, act or behave like radical elements of NCP.

It is very clear that Sudan will not thrive under the National Congress Party given its attitudes towards the majority of the people of Sudan be they in the north, south, east or west.

Given the above well known indicators of the failure of the current regime in governing the people of Sudan, it is logical to conclude that Mr. Yasir Araman should be the next president of the Republic of New Sudan if there is going to be free and fair election in April 2010. No one shall vote for Elbashir except those who enjoy suffering of others. No one shall vote for Elbashir except those who managed to control the resources of this country by virtue of being diehard members of NCP.

The people of Sudan who have suffered and continue to suffer under this regime should not hesitate to vote for Comrade Yasir Araman as the only hope for establishing new country that would peacefully accommodate all of us regardless of our names, color or tribe. Dr. Thuou Loi Cingoth, Sudan

UN and AU menace It is indeed very provocative by the AU and UN chiefs to say that they will work very hard to see that secession of south Sudan does not go through because of  Darfur will also ask for self-determination. It is up to Darfur people to decide their destiny. You will never know the shoes hurts until you wear it. The Problem of southern Sudan started in 1955 and can not be part of the problem of Darfur that is why the CPA is not part of the Darfur problem that started in 2003 because of a green pasture for the Animals. Justin Chicago Opiny, Canada

NCP readjustment to SPLM nomination is a strategy to defeat SPLM in the coming election No blame when cheated at the first time but sounds foolish on the second attempt. The Southerners of today are not those of Mr. Abel Alier and Mr. Joseph Lago of  “Anya-Nya One” who were misled to sign the Addis-Abba Agreement that killed William Deng Nhial and turned to loss of Southerners fighting for decades. It doesn’t make sense for the NCP to dispute or reject the successful nomination made by the SPLM!! In a democracy, all the campaigning-parties can contest for presidential candidacy. Therefore, one party won’t have a say nor propose other party to readjust their nomination so as to be defeated. At this time, we need to examine the deceptive tricks that may be made by the NCP to cheat the SPLM party and others during this upcoming election.

The SPLM choice is within the scope of winning the election and that is now putting the NCP to panic. NCP dream is foreseeing the high chances of losing the election. One of the interested moves made by the GOSS’s President (Mr. Kiir) and the Vice President (Dr. Riek) is the nomination of Yasir Arman as the SPLM Presidential Candidate to challenge the sitting-duck President Bashir of NCP. To view this with critical thinking and political analysis, it could tell the southerners that our president and his vice are not greedy for powers but their political agendas hit to aim for the success of the party and to address the benefits of the people who demand to be freed by the SPLM-party. Armon, is logically an Arab by birth, a clear Muslim, and a party deputy-secretary (many positions were before him), indeed, it means that the political nomination can tell the international community and the world at-large that the SPLM party in Sudan is the only party pushing the unity in Sudan and deserves to be the ruling party in the next election for the positive changes that I think will include the solution to Darfur mass-killing of citizens in which Bashir and/or his party fails to acknowledge. The SPLM Party time to lead Sudan is due to create some fundamental laws and systematic policies to free Sudanese for and within the remaining ten months for the Referendum.

By law, a supervisor can not order his manager of the company unless when in a messed situation. How comes? That Mr. Taha seemed to be ordering his Master-second vice president (Mr. Kiir) of Sudan. The meeting was wrongly scheduled, supposed to be only Dr. Riek Machar and Mr. Taha meeting and latterly Bashir and Kiir if any doubt.

The message to the SPLM is that they should double their momentums in the April-Election-run to win and be the Sudan ruling party which had never been achieved for those decades if I am not wrong. Despite of being only ten months, still, it shall be the greatest achievement made by the SPLM party in the history. The true sons of the land must know how to sleep and keep one eye opens!!! Let the southerners all be a watch-dogs for the NCP deceptive tricks and strategies to corrupt the election. Kuer Dau Apai from Sydney-Australia

The Way of the People The 5th anniversary of the signing of the CPA that ended the tiring war in our country has come and gone so quietly without any notice. One major reason---because the politicians are busy with the coming elections. In addition, they have a legitimate reason to do so. It is hoped that the coming election will determined the sustainability of the CPA. This hope cannot only be the hope of the International Community it must also be our hope. We as Southern Sudanese must strive to bring lasting peace to our country. This is why we must invest our voting power wisely during this election. This is why I have resolved to invest my time to bring to you my fellow Southern Sudanese what I would rather consider pep talk throughout the coming weeks and months. In a series of short articles, I hope to encourage us all to vote very wisely during this election.
We must not allow our emotions, greed and short-term benefits to override our intellect as we vote during the coming election. Let us leave that for our politicians who do it best. Each and every Sudanese should understand that we owed it not only to ourselves, but also to the future of our children when we vote this coming election.
It is our responsibility as Southern Sudanese to understand that the coming election is not only about our future, it also about the future of our children. It is about eradicating poverty and building a lasting peace for ourselves. It is about educating our young generation so as to ensure a good and informed leadership in the future. This coming election is about good governance and democracy in Southern Sudan.
In one of the few papers I posted in the past, I mentioned the need for our leaders to recognize that democracy is only feasible in a transparent and accountable society. I urge our leaders to not just talk about democratic change but to understand that it is imperative that they exemplify the change through their leadership. I also cautioned against making decisions that will affect the masses of the people behind close door. Our leaders must adopt the culture of inclusiveness in decision-making if the people matter to them.
Democracy I stated previously is about people and most importantly about the people that are being governed. It is our rights as Sudanese to know at all, times what our leadership is doing to improve our well-being and secure the future for our children.  As you vote in this coming election, seek to cast your vote for a leader that understands and practice these changes.
Thank you, Martin Modal, USA

Mr. Ping knows nothing We, the people of South Sudan will be the decision makers when it comes to making our own choice on our own destiny in 2011. Independence of South Sudan or Unity of Sudan on a new basis will be a matter that a non-South Sudanese has no right to influence or force upon us because an internationally bound agreement was made in 2005 amongst us the Sudanese to square this matter. What we want from the world community now is nothing other than patience, impartiality and support for its implementation so that the articles of that agreement is implemented on the ground.

It is indeed a shock to learn that Mr Jean Ping of AU is acting as an advocate for Northern Sudanese Arabs Unity project in Sudan. One wonders if at all Ping knows anything little about natural justice or agreements! Has he ever read the history of Sudan? On what ground was Mr Ping comment based? Looking at his physiological shape, he looks like one of the offspring of people who have inflicted a lot of harm and pain to black Africa. May be that was why he decided to take that decision. One wonders how he got to that club of African leaders. It is not a secret that he is only acting as a mouthpiece of Arabs and most notably Libyan Gaddafi and Bashir of Sudan for money. He pretends to stand for Pan-Africanism while actually destroying it from within just like his paymasters Gaddafi and Bashir. What Mr Jean Ping should take note of is that the over two millions lives lost and four millions displaced from their homes as a result of forced unity in Jallaba Sudan was not for the bloody dollar he gets from our misery, pain and death. Bismark Bura, Australia

Very Shameful Selective Dr. Lual Deng's Projects in Bor: It is very good to hear from brother Zechariah Manyok that Dr. Lual Deng has done extraordinary projects in the South for the benefit of a particular Bor section of Dinka in Jonglei state even to the extent of naming intellectuals of South Sudan "Dr. John Garang Think Tank" and naming a Bank, Bor Commercial Bank. Why Bor, Bor, Bor.............? However, as good news as what Dr. Lual Deng has done and is about to do, it is also bad news in a sense that brother Manyok has confirmed the real tribalism and even clanism many Southerners have been worriedly complaining about. Every project mentioned by brother Manyok was only about Jonglei, and not only about any community in Jonglei but acertain Dinka section even within the larger Bor Dinka Community itself. What a shame!!!! It is said if you don't see yourself in a mirror then that mirror has no value of being a mirror reflecting your face, whether beautiful or ugly. What Dr. Lual Deng and other Bor gentlement mentioned by brother Manyok in his article have been doing and are planning to do selectively and tribalistically or rather clanistically in  Jonglei or section of Jonglei state does not reflect nor recognize existence of others in the South. This marginalizing tendency could be a good cause for protest by Murle, Anuak and even the section of Dinak of Luaj, Thoy, Othol, etc. where Mr. Gier Chuang and George Athor hails from, leave alone other communities and tribes in the South who are being marginalized and denied peace dividends like the community of brother Manyok. Dear brother Manyok, if Dr. Lual Deng mirror you are selling on the net now is what you are happy to praise about South Sudan, then it is better for me to start agreeing with those sons of the Country like brother Gatwech, Thielieng, Kim Deng, etc, that you are good for nothing except triablism and particularly Bor-Dinka clanism. If I were you, I would have kept silent to sell such exclusive mirror of development in public that does not reflect the existence of others to benefits from peace dividends in the South. This is very sad!!! Dr. James Okuk.

Agaar government progressive Indeed, the blame game is coming to an end in Lakes state. It's true, Manyiel, that our brothers Agaar decided to abandoning the beautiful livelihood of past and adopting  a modern one which has pushed them to become power hungry and hate to each other which you won't find in other states in southern Sudan except only in Rumbek. However, since Daniel Awet is leaving who is going to blame on insecurity in Rumbek East and Rumbek central, as coming from so-called minority groups. I think it is time to sit and watch Agaar government in Rumbek progressing. Victor Madut, South Africa

Gov. Daniel Awet messed up Lakes State Dear Manyiel Awet Akot, I was surprised when I read your article praising your father. First of all, your father was a nice man during the struggle period when there were gunshots everywhere in South Sudan but with the coming of the peace agreement led by your father as minister of Interior Affairs, has distorted his powerful history.
He messed up South Sudan police (SSP) by introducing a lot of ranks without training to those gaining ranks in his term. To make it worse, all police holding high ranks are from Cueibet town, Yirol and Wulu which are right wing to Awet leadership.
Since he took over Lakes state leadership, there was no development dream that came into your father's brain one night. Your father Awet became busy with money lottery through his ministers who don’t give him wise advice. Everyone employed in all ministries are working in their own interests and your father is the senior for all those messes.
Your father failed to bring development in your home-town of Mayath payam and you can proof it by yourself if you could come back to Sudan yourself.  
Short example is Abdullah Malook who built a primary school in his home-town Marial-Akeng and Abdullah is a waiter working for your father office. What do you judge?
Daniel Awet Akot has background of Law, his work for South Sudan Law society when he was ousted by late chairman Dr. John Garang De Mabior.  Awet used to cycle inside Rumbek here talking to more Agaar sons seeking for reinstatement. So what happened is that your father is an old man and his time is running out in good governance. He is qualified to govern his house affairs and not public affairs.
Awet's departure does not mean Awet has gone out of Lakes state territories. Daniel Awet is still chairperson of SPLM party at Lakes state level and also member of SPLM-PB and I wish him to do a lot in that field which is the best for him to serve the party tendencies.
It good also Mr. Manyiel to advise your father Daniel Awet to accept others people opinions and not always imposing what his decides on people.
You are wrong by saying that Agaar were majority in Electoral College committee, that is not true -  the popularity that your father has was undermined by majority of people in Lakes state. Although his name was added in Juba to make total of six candidates contesting for governorship, but still your father's name was dropped {was the decision made at PB made by Agaar community?} To put it in other way, Awet was ruling Lakes state as a leader for all people and not Cueibet son nor Yirol you mentioned in your message– if you think so Awet will get backup from Yirol and Cueibet, then you must be proof wrong.
About Lawmakers; you are wrong, the Lakes state Legislative Assembly is composed with 48 members from different political parties of which your home-town Cueibet has majority coming from different parties. Yes, laws are made by lawmakers in Lakes state parliament and it is executive which had upper hand to execute laws into orders. Your father controlled the  executive powers and you can judge by yourself since the cabinet controlled by father split to contest in this coming election. What does it means to you as Lakes state son apart being Awet Son?
All his advisors, ministers and your father himself declared to contest April coming election -  if there was a good governance in the cabinet I hope they would have not decided to contest county-wide. This cabinet split under messes of your father.
Regarding Paul Mayom Akec and John Wol Makech, are sons belonging to Lakes state and all of them had failed in quelling differences within their community of Lakes and those blames could be directed to each one of them. They are to be blamed because they are now controlling powers as well --your father is the top.
The future of Rumbek is clear, and the future is going to be considered by three generations of Lakes state because tribalism has been headed by Awet son who was expected to lead Lakes state government in the nearest coming future. Manyang Mayom, Rumbek, Lakes State

Now NCP Says SPLM's Propaganda Against SPLM-DC is Dishonest: What a good news to SPLM-DC and the coming right President of  the GoSS, Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin to replace the illegal SPLA 1st. Lt. General and incompetent leader who has been working for the Somalization of South Sudan since 2005. Surely, God is on the side of Dr. Lam and his SPLM-DC team because the real truth is getting revealed now that the propaganda that has been circulated by SPLM wrong SG, Mr. Pagan Amum Okiech, is getting disqualified by facts. The fact that the NCP endorsed Kiir Presidency, tells a lot that the SPLM-DC is not NCP-DC. The NCP shied away from endorsing Dr. Lam because they are afraid of him as he is determined together with Dr. Riek and Alliance of South Sudan Political parties to ensure that the right to self-determination is implemented in 2011. Now the politics' ball has been thrown on the side of the SPLM while the SPLM-DC members, allies and Dr. Lam are laughing to the top of their voices because of the great relieve from overdue dishonest propaganda from SPLM. Will Kiir SPLM endorse Al Bashir Presidency while he prepares himself to go home in May 2010? Very good hock and we are waiting for Kiir's answer so that we laugh best at last. God is so great and Southerners cannot be fooled any more or once more! Dr. Lam has been honest with the cause of South Sudan but Mr. Salva Kiir, Pagan Amum and Yasser Arman and etc, have been dishonest. Now democracy is exposing them badly. What a great news! Dr. James Okuk

SPLM SG Pagan Amum is A Malicious Liar: Look at this First Class Liar and Communist Propagandist, called Pagan Amum, or name him the wrong SPLM-SG!! How dare for him to say that “Lam Akol is the NCP candidate ... the NCP was collecting signatures for Lam Akol in south Sudan.” If Pagan Amum is not a fake politician why is he not standing in any elections constituency so it could be known whether he has supporters on the ground far from his Diaspora boys whom he has hires to lie in the internet that the SPLM still has popularity in the South. The clock is just ticking for such public thieves to run abroad shamefully where their stolen properties and children are hidden. Let Pagan Amum and other malicious professional liars start packing their things for final leave, starting from May 2010. The waves of genuine change is just around the corner: Dr. James Okuk

South Sudan independence ordained by God Many leaders today in the South may decide to abandon the noble cause for all the southern Sudanese for which they had died for before, for the reason of getting power. It is something in history of the south which keeps on repeating itself in that way. There are times when people hope to achieve their aims but the devil always jumps in to spoil everything. If southern Sudanese leaders will not put aside their self-interests to look for the way out how to win the independence of the south in the peaceful means now, there is a danger that the southerners would be weakened and another long struggle will be inevitable.

However, I hope that southern Sudan's independence is something ordained by God and no any person will manage to rewind it back to zero. Those who want to go to get power through their loyalty to the enemy are free to do so but the land of the black will have a case with them. Many southern Sudanese had died fighting for the south and any southern Sudanese who tries to make their struggle to go in vain will automatically follow them. May God be praised! Juol Nhomngek Daniel, Kampala

SPLM bad democracy Many politicians in south Sudan will soon choose to run as Independent candidates because of the SPLM's poor choices. So far we’ve two Independent Candidates whom are SPLM members, the result of their decision to declare themselves as Independent Candidates came about because the SPLM Leadership has made wrong choices by selecting Unpopular Candidates instead of popular ones. If the SPLM leadership wants things to be perfect in the south, it has to comply with what the ordinary people want, there, the party will gains respect and support from the masses again. Choul D, USA

When is Lam concerned about southerners? On Mr. James Okuk's comment 'Lam Akol to rescue South Sudan from collapse," is it the same 1991 Lam Akol who defected from SPLM/A right after we were just kicked out in Ethiopia? At the time Sudanese people need togetherness more than ever. Instead he defected at that time with his friends including current vice president of GOSS, Riek Machar, from the movement.
When did Lam became more concern about people of South Sudan? When he was indeed part of that defection that caused our movement SPLM/A many towns from 1991-1994 as the result of their defection at bad time. Mading Machar, Sudan

Kiir must be removed before referendum It very unfortunate for somebody like Dr Justin to air out this misleading propaganda on Dr Lam's comment. Everybody knows how hard Dr Lam Akol worked to make self-determination for south Sudan a reality. To me this Kiir's led-GOSS has failed and must be removed prior to 2011 referendum if we are to achieve a viable future state in south Sudan. Alkodid, Sudan

I strongly agreed with you, Dr.  Justin, in your article “Lam Akol’s Political suicide”. Here is the quote from your article which you quoted from Dr. Akol. In a country like Sudan there’s no denying that people of South Sudan will favor separation to unity in a referendum scheduled for Jan 2011. A politician who obstructs these hearts of separation is at a risk of being swept away by the strong current of separation hearts from the people of southern Sudan.  The hostility in the south, tribal conflicts and intra-tribal conflicts are indicted by hidden enemies of South Sudan.

Akol himself is not the best choice for the people of South Sudan in the up coming elections to be held in April this year to head the Government of Southern Sudan, rather, he is a traitor of the people of South Sudan following his recent partnerships with northern ruling party (NPC). We need a change in the Southern Sudan regardless of current Government being changed or not. If the SPLM’ Government currently ruling the semi-autonomous region is weak then let us change it but we better be careful not to give power to weak hearted people like Akol.

We have not finished struggling yet and where we are now not even an end but it is the beginning of the end. The roads ahead are steep and hard to follow. Thondewut, Australia

Nobody better than Kiir Mr. Yong, pertaining to Kiir and his failed leadership like you said, I don’t think that whether there is any other better guy who will do good to us than Kiir. The front row is full of incompetent dirty folks who are a disgrace to us and to our freedom. You talk of corruption now because you may be having someone you wish to be a leader and when he is there, he will be just worse than Kiir, trust me. Kiir was there, he is there now, and he will be there to bring us home a golden plate, which is full of glory and everlasting freedom. All haters and lovers alike will enjoy and will have equal share together at last. He meant it in the first place when he took his stand, and he will continue to do it regardless of those hardships he has been facing now down the road. Gai Abraham

Lakes state ruled by Criminals Dear Chief Abiko, thank you very much for bringing to light the issue of Rumbek North former Commissioner,
John Bilieu Awol who has been summoned thrice and refused to appear at the court. Under the failed former Governor Awet, there isn't any law existing. Anyone can do anything to people of Lakes state with unimaginable impunity.
If a Governor ordered for a shoot to kill of civilians in the state, a commissioner can burn people's mouths and torture them at will. If a Governor can make some communities (Agaar) of Lakes as his adversaries to the extent of insulting them in public sittings/rallies, a commissioner can slap and lash anyone at will.

Now that the BIG man (Awetdit) has been shown the door out, these other cats should know that there will be Law and that everybody will have to be treated accordingly by Law.

Let President Kiir make no mistake of bringing back on SPLM ticket a wrong man to Governorship, SPLM will have no Governor in Lakes state, but a different party will have a Governor instead, we will vote for that! It is time that looters go home, now led by Awet, his thief son Philip Marol Mading, who resigned from State Chairpersonship for election on SPLM ticket because his Governor is not brought back to the post.

God is GREAT. Time has come that people will decide who will be their leaders and  not appointees of Gen. Kiir anymore. Akolde  N. Jinub, Rumbek

Lam judged south secession outcome correctly Given the current circumstances right now in south Sudan, I'd undeniably say Dr. Lam Akol has judged the outcome of south secession correctly. Just few days ago all 10 states in southern Sudan had nominated their Candidates for Governorships. The Nominees were sent to Juba so that the SPLM Political Bureau will make the final decision in regard to their nominations. But what happened as a result? The SPM Political Bureau undemocratically picked from people who didn't even win higher votes in their states. Now people are horribly sad especially in states like Upper Nile and Unity State, Bentiu.  It's obvious that people are really angered by Salva Kiir’s leadership not to mention the current nomination of Yasir Arman, and by Kiir's refusal to relinquish his military post as stipulated in both south Sudan Interim Constitution and the National Constitution.  Lastly, if the SPLM led government wants to reach the election month April, 2010, without any chaos, it has to start by respecting people choices and more importantly follows the laws. Because without laws, our quest for independent south Sudan will merely be a dream. Chuol D, USA

No suicide for South secession! What Dr. Lam Akol said isn't true for me! Tribal violence in the South is not government problem in the South. Those tribal problems are local problems occurring in the villages. They will not hinder division of the South from North at this point! What he said is tantamount to his "augur" for suicide. We are going to educate our people well to understand public laws and morals, good and wrong. We are tired of contempt in the north. Enough is enough! Chief Abiko, USA

Don't quote Dr. Lam out of context; get his message: I think the title of the news that quotes Dr. Lam Akol as opposing immediate secession of South Sudan is misleading and uncontextualized. Let's look critically into the core statement of Dr. Lam: "Under the present weak government in the south, calling for secession would be suicide." The most important phrase here is: "Under the present weak government in the south" and most important question here is: Why would secession of South Sudan be a suicide under Kiir bad rule? You don't need to be a nuclear scientist to get Dr. Lam's message and the sense of answers he provided as a justification for his concern and warning about the current worrying status quo in the South. The UN and NGOs working in South Sudan have already voiced similar concerns and warnings. In other words, Dr. Lam is saying that for South Sudan Independence to be viable, we need a change of leadership of the current GoSS. We have got informed that Dr. Lam aspiring through elections to be that leader of change in the GoSS, backed by a Alliance of South Sudan Political Parties. What else do you want to make out of Dr. Lam's sincere statement. From my point of view, Dr. Lam is damn right because no one can deny that we are seeing many bad things happening in the South now under Kiir leadership. We want an independent South Sudan born as successful state; not as a fail state with failed SPLM Kiir leadership. No more and no way! The people of South Sudan have to wisely choose between: 1) having a an independent "banana state" with wrong leaders sitting on public offices and stealing development money in Juba and the capitals of other corrupt states in the South; or 2) having an independent "rock state" (even if this comes later than early) with right leaders for the job who don't embezzle public fund for development and services and who don't practice tribalism in job offers for qualified citizens of South Sudan. Don't quote Dr. Lam out of context; his message is prophetic to be ignored; otherwise many Southerners could cry in future saying: Oh if only we could listen to Dr. Lam's warning and heeded to his wise advice not to rush for independence of South Sudan lead by those who wear SPLA uniform illegally when they have been retired already and who act unconstitutionally and are ready to kill their own Southern brothers in order to save Northern political dinosaurs. So, let my people choose wisely or else they continue crying as if they were born to suffer. Dr. James Okuk

Beware of violence at elections I like to advice that the hierarchy of leadership currently in force should not be destabilized as we look forward to the referendum before us which we were able to pristinely see is threatened by the enemies of peace who are there to see that we end up nowhere.
I would also like to caution that the choice made of some SPLM candidates do not represent the interest of the people and I am afraid should these other candidates stand independently, and they succeed to come to parliament, the decisions to be made by the SPLM as a party in parliament would be at mercy. If this choice was made with enough consultation, it is good but if a wrong hand was used and the same wrong hand appears during the election process, say rigging was pervasive, then remember what the case of Kenya was--Violence!! Our violence in Sudan is not a mild one as arms are still in the hands of civilians. Ohure Emil, Sudan

Nobody will go to war for Kiir In fact it's a self pity and discouraging to learn that our president is working against the national constitution and CPA which is the reference of the two constitutions (national and southern Sudan constitution), which he promised to guide and defend, when he succeeded our leader Dr John Garang.

Mr president, you are our great man, we don't want you to end up like president Robert Mugabe whose thirst for power is endless, The southern community love you and recognize your great contribution to our freedom and we expect that your good name in the book of southern History remains clean as it was. Do not allow tribal sentiment and greed for power spoil this history. Mr president, you have a legal right to contest for the southern Sudan presidency. But it's also good and wise to abide by the constitution and the laws of NEC as your northern counterpart did. Mr president, you need to understand that your western friends are also watching your steps, do not give them wrong impression, because we need their support.

You need to know that southern Sudanese will not accept to go for war simply because you want to be a president in uniform and I think that will not be a sound reason. Please, put both your personal and tribal interest behind and work on the interest of independent southern Sudan. Stephen Tongun, Juba

What I mean by "Abyei Minister": For those who understand political philosophy after twelve noon, what I mean by "Abyei Minister in my article is that Dr. Luka Biong is panicking to see someone educated and politically mature takes over the GoSS top leadership after the results of elections. But what he and other ungrateful Abyei opportunists in the GoSS have forgotten is that they are not yet Southerners to enjoy ministerial and other privileges in the GoSS, which are meant for real Southerners who did not sell their birth rights to Misseriah adopted brothers in Northern Kordofan.
 
What these Abyei opportunists and also what Kiir has not noticed is that Abyei residents are not eligible to vote or be voted in electoral seats of the South except for Sudan Presidency only where they may cast their vote for their son-in-law, Yasser Arman, who is yet to be disqualified by the NEC.
 
Dr. Luka Biong and his community are not registered in any constituency in the South and so their noises in the media are not going to add any votes to Salva Kiir in April 2010 if he passed the NEC’s red line. Also the Abyei residents are not going to vote in 2011 Referendum of Southerners even if they are Dinka by ethnicity. They will only vote for their own referendum in Abyei, which shall not have effect for the South if Southerners become self-determined to choose either unity or separation of the Sudan. If Kiir relies on Abyei opportunists too much, he is going to lose the elections badly and also the South might lose the possibility of independence with Abyei gentlemen as his advisors. This is a fact; not my own making. Dr. James Okuk.

Politics of ethnicity is root of all evils Mr. Peter Lokarlo Marsu in his article is playing with the dangerous sickness that has consumed the south so far. Mr. Nhial Deng Nhial who's the current minster of SLA affairs is not among the most senior SPLM according to the party constitution How can he be the presidential candidate? The southern Sudanese intellectual community should encourage our leaders to play the political game within the constitutional framework and party rules. I think that we should resist the politics of tribal ethnicity because it is not going to take our people to the promised land. As a matter of fact, southern Sudan is a multi-tribal nation. In other words we are a rainbow nation, so why don't we promote our diversity? If we don't appreciate our diversity then the south is heading in the wrong direction. In South Africa, the former president Nelson Mandela was not a Zulu yet he became the president. The presidential position belongs to every southerner regardless of his\her tribal size or family background. Politics of ethnicity is the root of all evils which is killing the south now.  Paulino Deng Chol, USA

Nilotics already too dominant in South I fully agree with you on the need for a name change for a nascent state. But Nilotia, my foot! Nilotia may become synonymous to the land of the Nilotes - i.e. the Nilotic tribes - that are indeed already flexing their military and financial muscles for all to see. Bear in mind that we do have other breeds within the regional territories known as southern Sudan that are not nilotes. One example you did not mention is how the Buganda tribe gave neighboring Uganda its name and has since then been the dominant ethnic group in that country albeit minus the military power. Now here we have a different story. The nilotes here are already claiming full rights over all in southern Sudan even without us giving them more legitimacy by naming the nascent country after their race. Look at all these stories of violence in southern Sudan - Dinka, Nuer, Shilluk, Mundari - ever heard of non-nilotes like the Azande or the Kuku clash? Pray look for another name. Ndere, Sudan

Nobody is above the law! Why the outgoing commissioner of Maper County in Lakes State in Rumek, Mr. John Awol, has defaulted repeatedly his court trial hearing when served with court summon letters in the court by a judge? He should not think himself very important from people altogether! He should go to court to clear himself when he ordered two people burned in the mouths.
A judge should write a letter to the State Governor Lt. Gen. Daniel Awet Akot to have him arrested. He should be punished and imprisoned for life without clemency at all when proven guility. Chief Abiko, USA

Pres. Kiir will never fail Dr. James Okuk, you are not a concerned citizen if you continue to embrace NCP-SPLM-DC as your way of freeing South Sudan.
Your continued attacks on the President of South Sudan and its administration shows who you are and whom are you following. Why don't you write your title as SPLM-DC which all of us knew and which all parties know.
Watch Khartoum or Sudan TV and tell us what Dr. Lam Akol is doing with Bona Malwal against the people of South Sudan. On the same note watch our national TV of South Sudan (SSTV) see what President Lt.Gen. Kiir is doing with his cabinet, Legislature and citizens, are providing to free you and me permanently from the oppressive regime in Khartoum that you are supporting and surrendering our people who fought and resisted oppression for 50 plus years.
President Kiir will never fail and will rule for decades no problem, you can join Beshir and his cohorts.
God bless General Kiir President of the Republic of South Sudan. We will defend him and his team of South Sudan beyond South Sudan declaration day be it before Referendum or during January 09,2011. Charles P, Canada

Good choice of the Jonglei State citizens The coming elections in the country needs critical thinking on who is fit for the good governance in the state like Jonglei where we found many communities fighting each other. The fighting can easily be termed as lack of comprehensive vision by the current leadership of the state. However we don't need to choose a wrong leader who cannot give solution to the ongoing conflicts among the inhabitants of that part of our beloved Nation.

Therefore as an ordinary citizen of southern Sudan I call upon the people of Jonglei state to give their vote to Lt.Gen. George Athor Deng Dut as for his capability that he shows among the other candidates to restore security among the local citizens of Jonglei who did not enjoy much of the peace time. Southern Sudan is now in much need of the people like George to bring peace & tranquility needed by the Ruling SPLM party Sudan. This election which is at the door in April 2010 is a golden chance for the people of Jonglei to exercise their democratic right to vote for a visionary & confidential leader like  Lt.Gen. George Athor Deng Dut. This initiative need to be taken by the Youth of Jonglei because they are the victims of day to day clashes between the tribes, therefore it's their full duty to take this challenge to bring true change to Jonglei. Lt.Gen. George Athor Deng shine out in the history of the liberation struggle in the south Sudan.

During the leadership of Philip Thon Leek, wounded Murle men were killed in the hospital in Bor the capital of Jonglei state in his presence, as he was lacking leadership quality, he did not think that what was done by those elements amounts to crime against humanity. Up to the time he left office of the Governor, he did not bring any of the culprits to book. After he was removed and replaced by Cde. Kuol Manyang Juk, the people expectations were very high that Kuol will eradicate tribal conflicts & bring stability, but to many people's surprise, the tribal conflicts became 99% in Jonglei state more than the time of Cde. Philip Thon Leek. Therefore when you make an assessment all over the 9 counties you will find that Lt.Gen. George Athor is the candidates supported by many people in the state. Teah Gatwech Gatka

Are we Sure for a peaceful independent South? God knows,  the mass killings of Tonj Cattle herders, Duk-Padiet innocent, and Wernyol make me suspicious for the fruitful outcome of Southern Sudan as a new state. The GOSS is now pregnant with some many tribal differences which make some of our leaders plan their own plots against innocent people like what happened in the above mention attacks against innocent Dinka ethnic group by Nuer ethnic group. The frequent attack organized by Nuer against Dinka will make the enemy achieve their interest of undermining the  South".
In fact, the Government of Southern Sudan must open its eyes broadly to scrutinize the problems otherwise the country will be like Somalia where  everybody is involved in criminal acts. There is no law in place that condemns the criminals especially those who raid and kill. They are always proud for the immoral acts against the innocent. This is a blame on the GOSS. The killing of innocent Dinka in the above areas must be investigated by the government before others go out of controll. Bol Bol, USA

Woe to the SPLM/A for South secession without AL Beshir at the Hague Why the SPLM/A betraying the Nubans, Darfuris, Easterners? It is our war and we must wage it to the bitter end until Al Beshir is arrested and handed over to the ICC. If we leave and take the South, who will guard the Darfuris, Nubans, Easterners and the Bejas?
SPLM betrays and we all ready have the South and not asking anyone for it. Why the SPLM is talking about it? South is our land and that is why Dr. John won’t ask anyone for it. South Sudan is John Garang’s land. Nuba Mts, Darfur, Ingessenna and Far North are the what SPLM fought for. Now SPLM is betraying and quitting them. What was the war all about? Aaron Yong, USA

Loyalty: Is it not a ticket to leadership? Loyalty; known as honesty to people or things is the only and foremost ticket to leadership.  As SPLM political Bureau will finalize discussion for the candidacy come April general election, the question anyone can ask is; will they value loyalty or not?  
Though loyalty is hard in today society, the SPLM mainstream selection standards such as ten years membership to qualify anyone interested for presidency, will define the loyalty of the candidate to the party as well as Southerners. These criteria have been applauded by Southerners and others eyeing on us. How long have candidate been in the SPLM/A movement will at least give a clue.
There will be inquisitive glances amongst entire Southerners if the Political Bureau does not come with clean aspirants at the heart of Southerners. They will be delightful to see candidate who never led astray whether under someone else’s influence or not before and after the CPA era. They will underpin and give full support to the candidate of this nature. And of course, there be anxiety if the Political Bureau fails short to consider simultaneously objective and subjective measures of selecting the candidate. Both principles if observed judiciously, the candidate will modify this sensitive life of Southerners.

SPLM Political Bureau should know that once trust diminishes the relationship deteriorates, hence a candidate is a bond between SPLM party and its supporters. Deng Machar, Australia

Others removed before Bor generals I wondered how a former Red Army member became so narrow-minded and tribalistic as Francis Chagai appeared in his article, crying foul that Bor community is being intimidated by both President Salva and Minister Gier. Personally I doubt whether he's from Bor Community, or an ex-Red Army member? May be he is trying to mislead southerners? Because if he is from Bor, he'd have the information that both accused men (Kiir and Gier) are married to Bor girls from very respected families. So how can an in-law hate his in-laws, the maternal uncles of his children? This is a nauseating idea...
Francis was trying to create a rift in the SPLM, which tells that he has never been a Red Army member. Those real Red Army are the ones who saved and defended Cdr. Salva in Magawi when Bol Kong attached that area during the Nyagat era. The Red Army members took oath that they either die or bring back the insignia of CDR. Salva. Where were you by then?
On the other hand, military service has age limits, and every commanding officer knows that he is leaving his office sooner or latter. Has Francis ever heard that Lt.Gen Oyay Deng Ajak had been removed from office as the CGOS, and replaced by another General called Hoth? Or that Gen.  Mathok who is an in-law of Kiir was released from his office too? Akol Tong of prisons is another uncle of Salva Kiir but he is sent home too?
Do you know that Gen. James Hoth Mai is not from Warrap state and not a Dinka too?
Does Mr. Chagai know that those police officers were given 5 years to stabilize and secure South Sudan but instead tribal wars were increasing especially in Jonglei State?
Does Francis Chagai know that all Jonglei communities (non-Dinka) have been accusing these retired Generals of arming their communities against others?
....Ah, why should I tell you all these things and you don't have the minimal qualities of Nationalism?
Do you know Mr. Bor, that some tribes don't have a single representative in GOSS and they don't know any differences between Bor and non-Bor Dinkas but they're supportive of GOSS because they see it as their government?
That seniority you are boasting of is not a privilege, instead it is a yolk, of which people will expect exemplary actions not tiny myopic ideas.
Last word is that if those generals are really patriotic, (Not Born-to-rule),  they will continue to work for SPLM like any one who was removed from office;

Mulana Ambrose Riiny Thiik, of Warrap not Bor, was removed from his office as Chief Justice, and has not been accommodated anywhere else, indeed he's still a faithful and loyal SPLM member despite having no office to rule from.
Have God in your mind when you talk about South Sudan, which is not a private property of any community, even if that Community is the great Bor of Dr. Garang. Dr. Ajack Makor, Juba  

We Dinka must tell ourselves the truth. We have suffered enough from Bor Tricks. I wanted to assure all southerners who are complaining about Mr. Kiir de Miyar leadership. He got through AK-47 and still have more to go. During the Garang Mabior time he promoted majority of Bor that was running the SPLA affairs. SPLA/M is corrupt because Bor loves to eat behind the frontline, which is what's continuing today.  

Every captured Town used to be benefiting only Bor personnel not other Dinka. More deaths on frontline on others Dinka and later will be reported Bor generals did the action. And they are going to be the people Ruling the Town.

Mr. Kiir has a right to protect life and must protect his life as Garang used to do too; it is Kiir's time. Bor had hands that delayed this War. No other Dinkas going to like Bor attitude anymore. The hatred that fall on Dinka was cause by Bor between southern Tribes.

Call it Gogrial, is his life protection.  No any Devil ever going to redesign SPLA/M Structures as they wish.  Nor replace Kiir by intellectual PhDs Murders. Where were you during the war and will you be next servicing for next war? There are many ways to help a country.  Offer your blood first if not don’t talk. Everyone must change things inside SPLA/M not outside it..  It has Sudan National Goal to Accomplish. How can people who offer their life lay down their power to be murders? I do not think Mr. Kiir will lead us down. 12 years  stability still yet to pass it over.  Gieth de Chol Deng, Canada  

Be patient on Dr. Riek Machar's leadership Dear Gatkuoth Deng, I have read your unpatriotic article and I quoted this nasty statement: "These accusations alleged against Dr. Machar are outdated and boring, and to many who read them would easily interpret it that the community of Bor simply disliked Dr. Machar because, to them he was responsible for challenging their son, late Dr. John Garang in the 1991 coup. That is all!" For your information, Garang took arms to fight the real enemy whereas Dr. Riek Machar rebelled to eliminate Bor Dinka and her resources! Yeah, Riek is a good leader because of his tribalistic vision for South Sudan. Just a piece of advise to you, stop taking us back to our "horrible era". It was not good and we (Bor Dinka) don't want to recall it back.1991 Bor massacre was not a drama whereby people tell lies instead of truth. It had happened and people have lost their dear ones. Some households among Bor Community remain orphaned to date.

A true politician would value civilian life. There has to be difference between Dr. Garang's leadership and Garang's people. People may set your so-called Riek free but time and history will not forgive him. Again there is no reason to panic on whether Dr. Riek will be our next President or not, let's give chances to our votes to determine it rather than compositing our wishes.

My advise to Dr. Riek Machar and his die-hard supporters, Isaiah Abraham and Gatkuoth Deng, you may want to be patient in your leadership career. It's ever said patience pays. Dr. Riek can't be our president-to-be because he is being campaigned for, at the expense of peoples' lives that he claimed in his 1991 leadership struggle, but on the merit of what he can do to alleviate leadership gap in South Sudan. Chol Deng Yol, Wanglei payam, Bor North.

Recommending deputy as an angel Dear Abraham, you haven't made a reasonable argument that would convince anyone, but only an amorphous, unsupported allegations against president Kiir. Let's have spirit of sincerity and frankness to admit that the President has made great achievements that outlast his failures. He inherited nothing in the South from his predecessor, but see and compare the situation in the south some years back before the CPA and now. It's pretty easier for a nation building that has never existed compared with what has been achieved in five years span.
It's really a paradox to blame the head of the system for the woes and bizarrely recommend his deputy as an angel who will bring us manna from heaven.
Youe nemesis as reflected by your article, is simply motivated by a shift of leadership in the SPLM. If we can base our arguments to unseat leaders as a result of incompetency, I see no one capable, tolerant and patient than Salva Kiir Mayardit at the movement to see the CPA through to its final destination.

Brothers and sisters, let's be truthful and gather relevant data and research on the core matters to criticize and condemn President Kiir instead of talking senselessly for sake of talking. I don't object to Dr. Riek Machar Teny to replace Kiir, but being a leader is a gift from God and is built. Robert K Greenleaf said, "to be a leader begins with a natural feeling that one wants to serve, to serve first. Then conscious choice brings one to aspire to lead." Mack Awer , Egypt

Insecurity in south still raging Dear Deng Paul, your article sounds good but a lot of flesh has been left out. The issue of insecurity in south Sudan is not something can be tackled overnight by the government bearing in mind the negative repercussion it can cause on civil populace in case the government resorts to disarmament. As we know the region has just come out of one the world's longest civil wars. As I'm writing now, there is confrontation going on in East Rumbek county between south Sudan army and civilians who resisted disarmament.13 SPLA and 3 civilians lost their lives. In fact GOSS is not sleeping as we may think, it always does its best to protect its citizens from attacks of any kind. Do not mistake me for siding with the government or government spokesperson, I am only writing on what I have seen and witnessed. We southerners need not to be like the children of Israel who questioned Moses in the wilderness as to why he brought them to die in the wilderness? It was better they die in Egypt because they faced a lot of hostilities in the wilderness to the point of losing trust in God and even disrespecting the stipulated ten commandments which were to guide them in the promised land. We have our CPA which was drafted to guide us as we move to referendum era and many of us are questioning the credibility of CPA terms. Others are questioning - will the south govern itself in case southerners vote for separation? And others are preferring going back to Egypt (united Sudan) to die there than die in the wilderness (south Sudan state). The question is, will life for southerners be improved when they run back to Egypt or going to the promised land? According to me, the later will be fairer compared to the former because you will be free men and women in your own state and you can invest freely. Now, the issue of insecurity in the south does not reflect incredibility of GOSS to govern the south, it should be a collective effort for all southerners  in stamping out this vice in south. Help our government to serve us better. Lotilu Daniel, South Sudan

Dr. Riek not tribalist, is that true? Dear Abraham, your article is well written and pointed out some facts about our current president and the government, but Dr. Riek Machar is not the only man for the position. You said that Dr. Riek is not tribalist. Is that true? How do you define a tribalist? You should have explained to your readers how Riek is the best leader to take over from president Kiir. I am not against Dr. Riek to be the president of Southern Sudan, but I just want you to tell us the history and background of your nominee so that we can vote for him come April 2010. Please be sincere! Achiek Anyang Achiek, Canada

Watch out against Jellaba While we are celebrating the New Year's eve and the passing of the most wanted bills into laws that will govern the coming referendum for either Independence or Voluntary unity of South Sudan, we'd pray to God for enabling us to reach this milestone in our history of turbulent existence with Jallaba. A fact that should make us be careful when dealing with Jallaba.

The conversion of these bills into laws is not near the end of the matter. As Southerners we should not relax on security, as Jallaba will work in all ways to thwart our dear aspiration of achieving our eternal goal that has cost us millions of dear lives. Unless we want to let things go negatively for our eternal suffering then we should dwell on the rivalry of Riek Machar vs Kiir on leadership question in South Sudan or any other personality for that matter. Other issues should be left pending till we achieve our independence. Our solid Unity in this year will be the recipe for our success in achieving our goal or failure in life due to the opposite. Bismark Bura, Australia

Appreciation to all leaders of south I don't know which adjective can be used to describe my leaders in south for the effort they put to fight for the plight of southerners and other marginalized Sudanese. The following should be appreciated for good work done:1. President of south Sudan and commander in chief of SPLA forces, Lt.Gen Salva Kiir for his powers to pressurize NCP to respect SPLM's decisions 2. VIP Dr. Machar, appreciated for persistent talks with NCP for the outstanding issues in the CPA implementation. 3.Pagan Amum for his boldness in facing and organizing for demonstrations in Khartoum and for eight hours. I would like to tell my fellow southerners that this is the time not to praise leaders from your tribe alone. Bravo to all leaders of south Sudan, keep the ball rolling. Lotilu Daniel, Sudan

President Kiir must go The likes of Dr. Lam Akol are  misaiming their energies by making alliances with the NCP..All that the junubiin need is a leader who wants to replace Kiir and announce that in Juba and in all the cities of the south. People in the south are generally fed up with Kiir's  incompetency, but their biggest dilemma is who is next to take over. They  may prefer to remain with the devil they know. I strongly advise those of Dr. Riek Machar face off with Kiir in Juba, rather than running away to the Arabs. Men and women in southern Sudan do not like anything Arab and that is the biggest undoing of Dr. Lam Akol. People need him, but why is he not talking the voice of the southerners? I hope Kiir's days are numbered. Mawien from Awiel, Northen Bahr el Ghazel State

Your article is full of bias, Mr. Abraham. What makes you think that Dr Machar is going to be the president of southern Sudan after Kirr" when there are so many people who are capable of that position?  Gabriel Mabior, USA

Undisciplined Army is a threat to the public The killing of three Kenyans by a lone gunman from the South Sudan Army (SPLA) has sparked a bitter war of words between the two sisterly countries. SPLA soldiers known locally as:
S=Stupid
P=People
L=Leave
A=Alone Army
are known for their recklessness, intimidation and beating of civilians on no grounds. Keep the soldiers in the barracks- that is where they belong and let the police man the streets. This incident is already making the relationship between the two nations very sour. Discipline the soldiers. They should be protecting the civilians and not killing them. Such deeds will scare away investors something that our country needs as an infant growing nation. This act has crossed the borders and should  be punishable by military tribunal  leading to a firing squad if found guilty. You do not chop off the hand that is feeding you. J.C.O. Jamonyok, Canada

Dr. Adwok Nayaba is advancing SPLA\M and GOSS Mr. ABiel Kon's article is misleading indeed about Dr. Adwok Nyaba. I think that twisting the obvious facts that Dr. Nyaba stated in his article will not help Padang community in confusing and blackmailing the peace-loving southern Sudanese people. The fundamental fact that Mr. Abiel Kon should acknowledge is that Padang community is neither SPLM nor GOSS. The southern Sudanese people are wondering about this new tribe by the name Padang. Actually Padang is a political community with a radically tribalistic ideology against the south. We all know that SPLM is a political party for all the marginalized Sudanese people whereas GOSS is a national government for all the south. If the new tribe does not believe in the values of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence with the southerners then the south must protect their unity.
The growing concern among the ordinary southerners is that our newly born government is being used by such an ideological community like Padang! For instance, the creation of many local administrations (counties) in Upper Nile without following the constitutional process. Another day, another Padang community village is turned into a county by Pres. Salva Kiir's decree. In the course of establishing Padang state in Upper Nile, the innocent Shilluk are being massacred and displaced. Their community land is chosen as the battleground against the southern Sudan nationalities . Everyone is considered as a militia from a new baby to an elder woman according to Padang's ideology. Even our national leaders like Dr Reik Machar, the vice president is a target because he defused the second Malakal fighting last year which was masterminded by Padang military elements in the SPLA.
SPLM as a ruling party in the south has come about as a result of the noble sacrifices which were made by our fallen heroes and the current leadership including Dr. Adwok Nyaba. Therefore, the leadership should not allow the wolves in sheep's clothing to hijack the SPLA\M as their community property. Our late national leader, Dr. John Garang, used to say that "CPA is not Garang's or EL Beshier's agreement but it is the Sudanese people's agreement". The CPA needs the nationalist sons and daughters of the marginalized south to make it a reality by paying their national contributions; not promoting their community interest at the expense of it.
The reactionary forces who're always the ultimate enemies of the revolution are taking over the movement organizations. In their quest for destroying our revolution; they've poisoned our unity by igniting the issue of the tribal ownership of villages, towns and cities in the south. A true revolution mustn't appease nor take for granted the reactionary elements' poisonous ideas. David Faromi, USA

A name south not a prerogative Firstly, I would like to say, thank you, Mr. Alex Dobrovolsky, for a very thorough analysis. Could I also add briefly that the naming of a country in southern Sudan is not our prerogative. Let those who started the fight in 1955 and generations who marshaled to the call consult at the appropriate moment as to how, when and why we name it as such. The hurdles ahead , elections, referendum and real determination of a people depend on the crucial cornerstone you mentioned. Do let us consult the originators. I will reiterate my thanks. Chrispin Wani, UK

No Malual community in Warrap Mr. Aaron, I don't think that you stated the fact, we don't have Malual community in Warrap State. Yai Weeth, USA

Let's speak publicly on separation Dr. Justin Ambago, thanks for your article. It's very interesting and arousing. Brother, I don't see a solid reason that makes us not to speak publicly of separation of south Sudan come 2011. Soft words will never help southerners. If Arabs can speak publicly that they want to wipe out southern population, why not southerners speak publicly about separation? For how long shall we take up arms in order to fight Khartoum based regimes? Why can we use the past to solve the future? Enough is enough, we need our own nation free of racism, religious affiliation, discrimination, oppression and intimidation but a nation where love, brotherhood and sisterhood prevail. Lotilu Daniel, South Sudan Editor: Mr. Lotilu, Rest assured, the SSNation has been publicly and internationally speaking about separation since it's start on 25 March, 2003.

Have you removed the plank in your eye?
Ladies and Gentlemen, in the first place, let me wish you “A happy X-mass and prosperous New Year”.
Primarily, I thought I would not waste my time to say something of political value in Sudan as nature will judge them. But, when I read an article on Southsudannation website posted on the 21st of Dec 2009, titled: South Sudan: independence de Jure or de facto," by Dr. James Okuk, in which he described the SPLM as incompetent and did not pave the way forward for Southerners. This left me with double chin! And I question him: what has the SPLM-DC done to Marginalized Sudanese, leave alone Southerners? as Dr. James is a die-heart supporter and a member of SPLM-DC.
I thought Dr. James Okuk; a supporter of SPLM-DC would be the least person to challenge the SPLM party because it’s representing all Sudanese even in the North. Dr, the party you had said to be incompetent has won patronage from marginalized Sudanese leave alone Southerners. It has no comparison with SPLM-DC which represents no one but politicians who formed it as they know the cubby-holes behind the stage.  
Dr, despite how marginalized Sudanese frowned and scorned the formation of SPLM-DC, it has insisted to operate with hundred of multifarious assurances to standby the rights of marginalized Sudanese and Southerners in particular should any party attempt to sabotage their rights. Amongst the targets were insecurity in the South, Self-determination for the people of Southern Sudan and CPA at large. As far, none has been done!! And even so, SPLM-DC has been viewed as an insecurity in the South given the tribal fighting between Dinka Padang and Shilluk. Do these points not constitute to the meaning of the word incompetency, Dr?

Most recently, the party you are supporting has taken no position over procession which took place in Khartoum where all parties in Sudan strike against the political activities of the genocidal Regime. What rights were you gratifying to stand-in if you soundless over the referendum bill for the people of Southern Sudan?  The party you claimed to be knowledgeable has failed without clear rendition of its formation!!

More painfully, the SPLM-DC is engaging with SPLM in superficial relationship than any other party in the South and more sincerely with NCP Regime. Southerners will not only cast you but curse for you have been always consignaing their rights to the enemy.  Absolutely, SPLM-DC is a party of “slighted lovers” of betrayal! Eventually, it’s inevitable that the politicians who run SPLM-DC were spiteful members of SPLM main stream who split the party after years of antagonism and pomposity based on power struggle. It’s also true that some were SPLM mercurial members but with grudges.

Dr. you have left a peaceful path that might bring Southerners under one umbrella and start threatening people on electronic websites with what I can describe as “interminable talk” full of self-actualization. Last but not the least; Southerners do not want controversial political figures but at least people whose political ideology is beyond tribal differences. Furthermore, they don’t mind where politicians come from; a good example is Comrade Yassir Arman who is mainly from the North. Southerners will accept politicians who fight for their cause and deny any one attempt to sell it. Read Matthew 7 and 2 peter 2:22 and you’ll know what you have done so far! Deng Machar, Australia

Too much Bor tribal domination Dear All, I do not understand why you are blaming our President about the retirements that he did. Old age, geographical location, presentation, self promotion or whatever, could have been the reasons for retiring those generals. Have you ever asked yourself why there are many Generals from Bor compared to other towns in South Sudan? Some of us are young and have not witnessed the 70s and earlier 80s in South Sudan, as such may have no memory of the events those days and we may forgive them. But those of us who were present those days must support our current President to do more of such work and bring an equitable balance in the forces otherwise the South Sudan will be or not be after 2011.We can not ignore the imbalance in the forces in South Sudan. All tribes were there during the 21 years war. Bor or not Bor, all were involved in the liberation war. The fact our hero was Bor does not give only Bor citizens the right to dominate events in the forces even the Central Equatoria State (CES) Police chief is from Bor, while there are high caliber Police Generals from CES who can head the police with all the professionalism required. Bor decision making processes are always questionable, they seem to forget that they are an inland tribe who very much need the support of the other tribes connected to other regions and this could be the reason why they are sticking to the border tribes land which is another big blow to their good name brought by Hero Garang. But ever since they have been associated with a high level of such domination which is a practice unfit under the current worl .We must learnt from our modern history and stop blaming our current President and he should be encouraged to reduce the tribal domination in other areas of the organized forces and the army which we all know are dominated by certain tribes in the South Sudan. Andy Murusal, Khartoum, Sudan

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