[OPINION] – Leaders Must End Self Interest to Save Yei

By Emmanuel Mawa Joseph

For more than a decade, the Greater Yei region has suffered the devastating effects of conflict, leaving its people without basic services such as schools, hospitals and proper roads. Continuous instability has crippled development, forcing many to live in fear and poverty.

As concerned citizens, we must ask: Why has peace remained elusive in Yei?

The Need for Political Rethinking Among Leaders

The crisis in Yei is not solely the result of external forces. it is also driven by deep political divisions among local leaders. The inability of politicians to reconcile their differences has prolonged the suffering of ordinary citizens.

Instead of working together for peace, many have prioritised personal and factional interests, making conflict resolution almost impossible.

It is time for Yei’s political leaders to reflect seriously and ask themselves:

+ What are the real causes of division among us?

+ How have our actions or inactions contributed to the people’s suffering?

+ Why has it been so difficult to unite for the sake of peace?

Without honest answers to these questions, lasting peace will remain only a dream.

The Role of Youth in Building Peace

While leaders bear great responsibility, the youth of Greater Yei must also rise above ethnic and political divides. The younger generation has suffered the most, denied education, job opportunities and a secure future.

Instead of being drawn into violence, young people must lead the way in promoting unity, love and peaceful coexistence.

I urge the youth of Greater Yei to:

+ Reject tribalism and political manipulation.

+ Encourage dialogue and reconciliation within communities.

+ Hold leaders accountable for their role in sustaining conflict.

Peace cannot be achieved without the active involvement of young people. They must be the voice of reason and the driving force for change.

A Plea for Lasting Peace

For ten years, Greater Yei has been trapped in a cycle of violence and neglect. Schools remain closed, hospitals lack basic supplies and roads are impassable. The people deserve better.

+ To the politicians: Put aside your differences and put the well being of the people first. Engage in genuine dialogue and work towards lasting solutions.

+ To the youth: Stand united. Refuse to be used as tools of division.

+ To the international community and peace advocates: Continue supporting Greater Yei’s quest for stability, but ensure that local leaders take responsibility for their part in the crisis.

The people of Greater Yei are tired of war. They deserve peace.

Emmanuel Mawa Joseph is a peace advocate and writer from South Sudan. He focuses on issues of unity, governance and youth empowerment in the Greater Yei region.

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