President Salva Kiir addresses the nation during South Sudan's 15th Independence Day celebrations. Photo credit: Office of the President

President Salva Kiir has urged South Sudanese to embrace unity and take part in the country’s first post-independence elections, saying national solidarity is essential to overcoming the country’s challenges.

In his address to the nation on Thursday to mark the 15th Independence Anniversary, President Kiir paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the liberation struggle. He also thanked members of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and other organized forces for their continued service in protecting the country.

The President said the conflict that began in 2013 has slowed the country’s progress. He added that the goals of independence can only be achieved through peace, reconciliation, and national unity.

President Kiir also highlighted preparations for South Sudan’s first general elections since independence. He described the polls as a key milestone in implementing the Revitalized Peace Agreement and bringing the transitional period to an end.

He called on political parties, civil society organizations, and citizens to support the upcoming voter registration exercise, saying it will allow South Sudanese to exercise their democratic rights in the December elections.

“As South Sudan prepares for democratic elections, we call upon all political actors to honour the commitments our nation has made under the convention of the Rights of Person with disabilities, the omen, peace and security agenda, and the Maputo Protocol,”

President Kiir also called on citizens to celebrate peacefully and wished South Sudanese a happy 15th Independence Day.