South Sudan’s elite accused of plundering public resources

JUBA-The United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, the Netherlands, and Norway in joint statement released Friday, accused South Sudan’s political elite of stealing the country’s enormous resources and denying its people access to much-needed services.

The western powers released this statement on occasion to mark the 20th anniversary of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in South Sudan.

“The 9th of January marked the 20th anniversary of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). Our governments welcomed this historic agreement, including its provision for a referendum in which the people of what is today South Sudan would determine their own future,” partly reads the statement.

The western embassies said the CPA was signed amidst great hope that the South Sudanese people would be able to enjoy peace, human rights, and a government responsive to their needs.

But it is said that despite vast wealth, only a few elites benefit from the resources.

“Sadly, this hope has gone unfulfilled. Despite South Sudan’s tremendous natural resources, the country’s wealth continues to benefit only a small elite,” it said.

“For years, the transitional government has failed to use public revenue transparently to pay public sector salaries, ensure access to basic health and education services, or create an enabling environment for sustainable development.”

The powerful western countries claimed that corruption and mismanagement of natural resources are rampant in the country.

“The transitional government has not taken the steps necessary to create the conditions for peaceful and credible elections, including fostering the civic and political space needed to give the people of South Sudan a voice in their country’s future.”

“We renew our call on the transitional government to act with urgency to meet its long overdue commitments so that South Sudan can finally realize the CPA’s promise of peace and prosperity for all its citizens.”