Advocacy Group Calls on Government to Provide Basic Services to Citizens

By Benjamin Takpiny

The Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), has called upon the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) to prioritize the provision of basic services to the people as a means of maintaining peace across the country.

“The government must prioritize the welfare of its citizens by providing basic services such as food, education, healthcare, clean drinking water, electricity, and a reliable road network. These services are essential for allowing the populace to transport goods and services efficiently,” said CPA in a statement on Sunday.

It emphasized the importance of ensuring equality, security and justice to uphold the political order of any nation.

“Additionally, promoting advancements in technology and science will ultimately benefit all of humanity and enhance the welfare of the people. Furthermore, establishing a regional economic system can help eliminate disparities, mistrust, and regional imbalances,” it said.

CPA added that it is essential to promote ethical practices that support ecological prosperity and to implement solutions for addressing environmental crises, such as oil pollution in the Upper Nile Region, which poses a threat to human life.

“We must cultivate a mental and spiritual mindset that encourages a positive attitude and fosters harmony. By recognizing diversity and promoting integration, we can better express our emotions and strengthen our friendships with individuals from different cultures. It is everyone’s noble mission to promote peace and contribute to the long-lasting well-being of all lives,” it disclosed.

CPA called upon political leaders in South Sudan to prioritize the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in 2025.

It also urged leaders to promote political tolerance to ensure lasting peace in the country.

“Peace is the path to fostering growth and prosperity in any society. Without peace and harmony, attaining political strength, economic stability, and cultural development becomes impossible. Furthermore, before we can share the concept of peace within our country, we must prioritize peace over self-centered interests. It is essential that we first cultivate peace within ourselves,” it noted, adding that maintaining peace is not the responsibility of a single individual but a collective duty shared by every South Sudanese citizen regardless of their political affiliation.

“However, the primary responsibility lies with the head of state and the political class to foster and build peace. The Center for Peace and Advocacy (CPA) emphasizes that political leaders in South Sudan should promote political tolerance to achieve lasting peace in the country since the formation of the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (RTGoNU) in February 2020,” it said.

CPA noted that the parties to the R-ARCSS have not collaborated as a united government. Instead, they have engaged in unnecessary competition, undermining the spirit of teamwork needed for progress in the country.

It also asked political elites to be honest and genuine in their service in public office, as the majority of the population has lost trust and confidence in the current government.

“Indeed, if you examine various religious scriptures and ceremonies, you will find that they all promote peace. They advocate for the elimination of war and the maintenance of harmony. In essence, they all embody a sacred commitment to peace,” it said.