“We are frustrated,” Torit residents speak on independence day celebration
Various residents lamented the economic hardships, unemployment and conflicts, saying the country is yet to gain full freedom
By Theophilous Ochang
Several residents in Torit, Eastern Equatoria State, have expressed frustration over the economic situation in the country.
They raised the concerns during the celebration of the 14th anniversary of South Sudan’s independence celebration on Wednesday, demanding reforms in the country.
They said that since the country gained independence from the Sudan in 2011, the country has remained stagnant without development.
“There is no roads, good health facilities, no proper education and prevalent conflicts throughout the country.”
Jackline Hifira, a resident in Torit town, expressed frustration over the state of Torit despite being a historical town, saying there has been no development since 2011.
“We have stayed here in Torit for many years, yet we don’t see any change. What is the government of South Sudan thinking about us?” she said.
“We have been suffering until today and hoping that things may improve, but nothing has.”
Ms. Hifira said many children have graduated from universities, but there are no jobs and some have decided to join bad peer groups.
Abau Malak, another resident of Torit, stated that South Sudan has never attained its freedom despite having gained independence in 2011.
She noted the continued wars that began in 2013 and are still going on despite the signed September 2018 peace agreement.
She appealed to the government to consider the suffering of its citizens, including women.
“There is no good thing. We don’t get rest. Always there are conflicts and they are saying we are independent, how? The government should see our suffering, the women are suffering more,” Ms. Malak said.
She added that there is a need for the government to put much effort into addressing all forms of conflicts to realize a better South Sudan.
“The one thing if the government doesn’t put much intention into solving the conflicts is not good; we need a change in South Sudan.”