In a message issued on Wednesday, Owinow congratulated the Government and people of South Sudan on the milestone, describing Independence Day as a moment to celebrate the courage, resilience and sacrifices that led to the birth of the world’s youngest nation.

He said the anniversary should also serve as an opportunity to reflect on the aspirations that inspired independence, including peace, unity, justice, democracy and prosperity for all citizens.

According to the RJMEC chairperson, this year’s celebrations come at a critical moment in South Sudan’s history. While the country has registered notable progress since the signing of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), several key milestones remain unmet.

Owinow stressed that the full implementation of the peace agreement remains the most credible path toward lasting peace, national reconciliation and democratic governance.

“RJMEC therefore calls upon all the parties to the Revitalized Peace Agreement to reaffirm their commitment to the full, faithful and timely implementation of the Agreement,” he said.

He emphasized that dialogue, compromise and political will are essential to overcoming remaining challenges and creating conditions necessary for a peaceful democratic transition.

The RJMEC chairperson further called on South Sudanese authorities to prioritize outstanding tasks under the peace agreement, including governance reforms, the unification of forces, the permanent constitution-making process, electoral preparations and the creation of a conducive political and civic environment.

“As South Sudan prepares for its future, it is imperative that priority be given to completing the critical pending tasks,” Owinow noted.

He also appealed to political leaders to place national interests above partisan considerations, saying the hopes of millions of South Sudanese depend on the collective determination of the country’s leadership to preserve peace and deliver meaningful progress.

“The hopes and expectations of millions of citizens, particularly women, youth and internally displaced persons, depend on the collective resolve of the country’s leadership to safeguard peace and deliver tangible dividends to the population,” he said.

Addressing citizens directly, Owinow commended South Sudanese for their resilience in the face of adversity and encouraged them to continue embracing peaceful coexistence, dialogue and reconciliation as the foundation for nation-building.

He also expressed appreciation to regional and international partners, including the African Union, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the United Nations and other stakeholders, for their continued support to South Sudan’s peace process.

As the country marks 15 years of independence, Owinow said the occasion should renew national commitment to completing the journey toward a peaceful, democratic and prosperous South Sudan where all citizens can live in dignity, security and hope.

“Happy 15th Independence Day, South Sudan,” he concluded.