By Aguok Chok

The First Deputy Chairman of SPLM, Vice President, and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, has commended President Salva Kiir Mayardit for his remarkable courage and unwavering leadership through two defining wars that paved the way for South Sudan’s independence.

“Chairman, you are a man who fought in not one, but two generations’ wars,” Dr. Bol stated during the swearing-in ceremony of the new SPLM Secretary-General, Paul Lagole. “You are the embodiment of our struggle and the reason we enjoy self-determination today.”

Speaking with clarity and conviction, Dr. Bol emphasized that South Sudan is now at a turning point—a moment not for further division, but for building. “The time has come to stop fighting and start building. Let us build industries instead of militias. Let us build systems that serve our people and strengthen our economy,” he said.

He urged the newly appointed party officials to take up their roles with dignity, vision, and a sense of responsibility. “This is a movement of high responsibility. You are taking office at a time when the country urgently needs clarity, unity, and meaningful progress.”

Dr. Bol advocated for a strong focus on reconnecting with citizens at the grassroots level. “The heartbeat of any genuine political movement lies with the people. A party that is not in touch with its grassroots becomes a shell. We must build vibrant structures that live with, and live for, the people.”

Rather than focusing on political gain, Dr. Bol highlighted the importance of cultivating a culture of integrity, fairness, and national service. “Let us put aside personal ambition. South Sudan is bigger than any one individual or group. Our responsibility is to create a society we are proud to hand over to future generations.”

On the economic front, Dr. Bol emphasized the need for sound fiscal policies and rural economic development. He called for the strengthening of tax systems, regulation of livestock markets, and increased security to empower communities across the nation.

“Lasting peace is the foundation for lasting prosperity. We must unlock South Sudan’s economic potential—not through slogans, but through planning, investment, and institution-building,” he remarked.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Bol issued a collective call to action: “The time is now. If not now, when will we rise to fulfill our nation’s dream? Let us walk forward, not as fragmented factions, but as one people, with one purpose—to build the South Sudan we all desire.”