President Salva Kiir Mayardit has called on South Sudanese to recommit themselves to peace, unity and reconciliation as the country marked the Christmas season, urging citizens to reject violence and celebrate the holiday peacefully within their communities.
In his Christmas message delivered on December 24, the President extended warm greetings to South Sudanese across the country and in the diaspora, conveying the message on behalf of his government and family.
“Christmas is always the time to recommit ourselves to the Lord’s teachings on peace, love, joy and forgiveness,” President Kiir said, emphasizing that these values should guide how citizens relate to one another.
He urged South Sudanese to allow these principles to shape both personal conduct and national responsibility.
Reflecting on the country’s journey, the President called for deep national introspection, stressing the need to reject violence in all its forms.
He encouraged citizens to choose unity over division, peace over fear, and service over selfishness, describing reconciliation as a healing force capable of mending divisions within society.
“Reconciliation heals division, and love creates a strong and successful nation,” he stated, noting that these values are not only spiritual teachings but also essential foundations for national duty and cohesion.
President Kiir also acknowledged the severe challenges facing the country, particularly the economic and social hardships experienced by many citizens. He attributed these difficulties to years of senseless wars and persistent insecurity, which he said have devastated South Sudan’s social and economic fabric.
The President stressed that addressing these challenges requires national stability, pointing to the importance of conducting elections as planned.
He noted that the government’s ability to tackle the country’s problems depends on a peaceful environment and collective commitment to democratic processes.
Despite the difficulties, President Kiir urged citizens to maintain hope and celebrate Christmas peacefully, calling on communities to uphold harmony during the festive season.
“I once again wish you all a Merry Christmas and urge you to celebrate it peacefully in your communities wherever you are,” he concluded.
The message comes amid continued calls for peace, reconciliation and political stability as South Sudan prepares for its next phase of transition and seeks to overcome the legacy of conflict.
