Opinion | Forgotten heroes: neglected war veterans and liberators in South Sudan

By  Emmanuel Malual

OPINION, JULY 30, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – As South Sudan commemorates Martyrs’ Day, it is important to remember the brave men and women who fought for the country’s independence. However, it is also important to acknowledge the plight of another group of heroes who have been neglected by the state: war veterans and liberators.

These individuals fought tirelessly for freedom, but they now find themselves living in dire conditions, struggling to make ends meet, and lacking the support they truly deserve.

In the years leading up to South Sudan’s independence from Sudan in 2011, countless individuals took up arms in the fight for self-determination. They braved unimaginable hardships, enduring violence, displacement, and loss, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to securing a better future for their fellow citizens.

However, despite their significant contributions, the South Sudanese government has failed to adequately address the needs of these war veterans and liberators. Many of them live in poverty, without access to basic necessities such as healthcare, housing, and education. Some are disabled as a result of their service, but rehabilitation centers and support systems are scarce or non-existent.

John Deng, a 68-year-old war veteran, recounts his struggles with a heavy heart. “We fought for this country, for our people, but now we are left to suffer. Our sacrifices seem forgotten,” he laments. Like many others, Deng feels betrayed by the very nation he fought to build.

The neglect of these heroes is not only a moral failure, but it is also a missed opportunity for national reconciliation and healing. Recognizing the sacrifices made during the war and addressing the needs of war veterans and liberators would help foster a sense of unity and respect among the nation’s citizens. It would also send a powerful message to future generations about the value of sacrifice and collective responsibility.

While the government has made promises to address the issue, there is a pressing need for immediate action. Advocacy groups and civil society organizations have been calling for increased financial support, the establishment of rehabilitation centers, and comprehensive social welfare programs tailored specifically to the needs of war veterans and liberators.

International partners and the broader South Sudanese society also have a role to play in ensuring that these heroes receive the recognition and support they deserve. By amplifying their stories and advocating for change, we can help create a movement that demands justice and dignity for those who sacrificed so much.

As South Sudan celebrates Martyrs’ Day, it is imperative that we reflect not only on the lives lost, but also on the living heroes who continue to bear the scars of war. The time has come for the state to fulfill its obligations and honor the bravery and sacrifices of these individuals by providing them with the support and care they need and deserve. Only then can South Sudan truly attain healing, reconciliation, and sustainable peace.

The author is a journalist and can be reached via: malualmakuach77@gmail.com.

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