JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday commended South Sudanese for their patience and resilience in the face of difficulties as the country marked its 14th Independence anniversary.
“My fellow citizens, today I want to say thank you. Thank you for your patience, your resilience, and your belief in the government of South Sudan,” Kiir said in his national address on Wednesday.
Kiir acknowledged the challenges South Sudan has faced, saying, “It has not been an easy road.”
“It has not been an easy road, but we have proven that the resilience and the strength of our people is great. We were born as a free nation. We were born as people with dignity, identity, and destiny.”
He noted that South Sudanese have demonstrated resilience and strength throughout history, overcoming numerous trials and emerging stronger each time.
“Distinguished friends of South Sudan, fellow citizens, today is a day of pride and a day of promise. Today is a day that reminds us of the pain that we have endured to gain our freedom, a freedom that was given to us by the Almighty Father,” he said.
“But a freedom that was fought for with the blood of our martyrs, to whom we are forever indebted. Let’s remember them by observing a moment of silence. As we celebrate our 14th year of independence, we must also acknowledge the challenges that we face today.”
