CES Governor: 14 Years On, Nation Must Move Forward

(JUBA) – The Governor of Central Equatoria State, Lt. Gen. Rari Mujung Emmanuel, has used the occasion of South Sudan’s 14th Independence anniversary to call for peace, unity, justice and collective responsibility across the nation.

In a public message issued on 8 July 2025 from the State Government Secretariat in Juba, the Governor extended congratulations to the President Salva Kiir Mayardit and to all the people of South Sudan.

The Governor described Independence Day as a reminder of the sacrifices made by South Sudan’s founding heroes and heroines in the struggle for freedom and sovereignty. He said their courage and dedication laid the foundation for the nation’s independence, achieved on 9 July 2011.

Lt. Gen. Mujung praised all citizens and leaders who continue to dedicate themselves to the work of building the nation and fostering peace. He reaffirmed the commitment of Central Equatoria State to advance policies that promote peace, security and national cohesion.

Focusing on the responsibilities of government, the Governor stated service delivery as a key priority of his administration. He emphasised the importance of infrastructure development, quality healthcare, education access and disaster preparedness as essential services owed to every citizen. He also stressed that public leadership must be grounded in accountability, transparency, and the pursuit of practical and sustainable solutions.

He encouraged citizens to rise above political, ethnic and social divisions in pursuit of a shared national destiny and called on all communities to continue working together to build a strong, peaceful and united South Sudan.

The Governor concluded his message with a blessing for Central Equatoria State and the Republic of South Sudan, wishing all citizens a happy and meaningful 14th Independence Day.

South Sudan officially became an independent nation on 9 July 2011 following a referendum in which an overwhelming majority voted to separate from Sudan.

Since then, the country has faced numerous political, economic and security challenges.