Reflecting on Two Decades of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA): A Citizen’s Perspective

As South Sudan marks 20 years since the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), I find myself reflecting on this milestone.

In 2005, I was a young student in Primary 8. Today, I am a graduate who has been working since 2018. But what has become of the CPA’s promises during this time?

To the governments and international partners who issued the statement attached, thank you for your continued concern and solidarity with South Sudan. However, I urge us all to address certain realities more candidly.

The statement mentions that South Sudan’s wealth benefits “a small elite.” Who are these elites? Why do we hesitate to name the root causes and actors perpetuating corruption and mismanagement of our country’s abundant resources? As citizens, we witness these failings daily, and the world looks on with disbelief. The Government of South Sudan has undeniably fallen short of its commitments, and these shortcomings are not mere abstractions—they are lived realities for millions of us.

As we commemorate two decades since the CPA, I make an earnest appeal on behalf of myself and countless other South Sudanese youth who see their most productive years slipping away in the struggle to survive. Please ensure that by 2026, South Sudan holds credible elections. Statements highlighting the government’s failures are no longer sufficient. We need actionable steps that lead to tangible outcomes.

By January 2027, let us celebrate a South Sudan that has finally realized the CPA’s vision: a nation governed with integrity, responsive to its people, and united in peace and prosperity.

To our international friends and partners, we ask for your unwavering support in helping us achieve this long-overdue goal.

Thank you.