Yei Communities Remind Leaders of Liberation Commitments on Martyrs’ Day

(YEI) – As South Sudan observed Martyrs’ Day on 30 July 2025, residents of Yei River County in Central Equatoria State used the moment to reflect not only on the sacrifices of liberation heroes but also to call on leaders to finally fulfil long standing promises.

Yei’s residents said the day must go beyond speeches and flowers, urging both the national and state governments to deliver basic services like roads, schools, health care and clean water, which were central to the vision of the country’s founding leaders.

The public holiday is marked annually on 30 July to honour the late Dr John Garang de Mabior and other fallen heroes and heroines who contributed to South Sudan’s independence. This year’s events were accompanied by renewed public outcry over continued service gaps and underdevelopment, particularly in rural counties like Yei.

Hillary Alison, a resident of Lupapa area, said political leaders must unite and steer the country towards prosperity, recalling Dr Garang’s famous call to “take towns and services to the people.”

“In memory of our fallen heroes and heroines, we must bring services to the people. That was their dream. We are tired of war. Peace and development should be our rights,” he said.

Rejoice Abanga, from Hai Peace area, called on South Sudan’s leaders to focus on achieving the aspirations of the liberation struggle.

“We have no good roads, no proper schools or hospitals, no electricity or clean water. Peace is still far, especially in rural areas like Yei,” said Abanga.

She added that many women played active roles in the liberation struggle but have yet to see their sacrifices rewarded through tangible improvements in daily life.

Malish Richard, a resident of Hai Lomuku One, voiced similar frustrations, saying Martyrs’ Day should serve as a wake up call for national unity and sustainable peace.

“Let this day bring us peace, restore unity and lead us to reconciliation, freedom, development and prosperity,” said Malish.

He added that without peace and stability, South Sudan’s citizens will continue to be excluded from key sectors such as agriculture, education and reconstruction, which are critical to the country’s economic growth.

Responding to these concerns, Central Equatoria State Governor Rabi Mujung Emmanuel Laila used his Martyrs’ Day statement to reiterate his administration’s focus on lasting peace and inclusive development.

“In honouring our martyrs, we recommit to improving security, supporting reconciliation and promoting homegrown peace dialogues,” said Governor Laila.

He also noted that his administration is prioritising improvements in roads, health care, education and resolving land issues through legal and institutional mechanisms.

For many in Yei, however, the gap between promises and delivery remains wide.