South Sudan cancels SPLA Day celebrations due to economic strain

JUBA – The South Sudan People’s Defense Force (SSPDF), announced on Wednesday that there will be no official celebration of the 41^st anniversary of SPLA Day due to the country’s current economic hardship.

SPLA Day, a national holiday observed annually on May 16, commemorates the formation of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) in 1983, a rebel group that eventually led to South Sudan’s independence.

Speaking to reporters during a press conference in Juba, SSPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang explained that the decision to forgo official celebrations stemmed from competing national priorities.

“We haven’t been celebrating in the recent past for the same reason that our economy is in distress, and holding celebrations countrywide requires a significant budget,” Lul said.

He expressed hope that future celebrations could resume once the economy stabilizes.

“We will celebrate big public holidays like SPLA Day when the economy is stable,” Lul said.

“Therefore, bearing in mind that we have competing priorities, yes, it is good to celebrate when you have plenty, but if there is scarcity, then it is wise to reserve that for the most pressing issues,” he elaborated.

Lul further clarified that individuals and groups are still free to celebrate SPLA Day peacefully and responsibly in their own way and chosen locations.

Despite the lack of official festivities, he directed soldiers to remain on high alert as the nation marks the 41st anniversary of the SPLA’s formation.