Gen Thomas Cirillo’s Address to Nation garners praise and sparks nationwide debate
A full week after its historic delivery, the popular address to the nation by General Thomas Cirillo, chairman of the National Salvation Front (NAS) and leader of the South Sudan Movements Alliance (SSOMA), continues to dominate conversations across South Sudan. The electrifying two-and-a-half-hour speech, which many have described as a turning point for the nation, has drawn widespread attention for its candid critique of the current regime and its impassioned call for unity among the people to rescue the situation.
You have to know the truth…
“You have to know the truth,” General Cirillo declared repeatedly during his address, exposing what he described as a web of contradictions, corruption and failures within President Salva Kiir’s tribal administration. The general’s revelations have struck a chord with citizens, many of whom agree that his genuine and candid remarks reflect the grim realities South Sudanese have faced for years: corruption, mismanagement and human rights abuses. Critics and supporters alike acknowledge that his message of truth has touched the core of the nation’s collective frustrations.
In his address, Cirillo urged the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the international community to review their support for Kiir’s regime, which he argued enables the status quo that undermines the people’s aspirations for peace and stability. “Your support,” he stated, “prolongs the pain and delays the realization of our people’s dignity and unity.”
Your [IGAD] support of Kiir enables ongoing mismanagement and delays much-needed change
The speech, delivered with open-hearted fervour, has been lauded by opposition supporters as a defining moment for the country. Citizens across South Sudan have expressed agreement with the truths Cirillo laid bare, with many acknowledging the accuracy of his claims about the regime’s contradictions and failures.
Observers say the speech has energized segments of the population, especially the youth, who are increasingly vocal about their frustrations with the never-ending empty lies and promises.
Kiir himself is too deformed to be reformed…
The address has also inspired calls from other activists urging all opposition groups to unite in a concerted effort for regime change.
“It’s clear that President Kiir’s regime is incapable of change,” said an activist based in Nairobi. “Kiir himself is too deformed to be reformed. The only path forward is for all opposition forces to work together and present a united front.”
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Watch/listen to the full speech or listen to specific topics/parts
Part 1: Greetings and Salutations
Part 2: Current Political and Economic Situation
Part 3: Security, Governance and Social Values
Part 4: NAS Vision (What does NAS Stand For?)
Part 6: Message to IGAD and the International Community
Part 7: The Alternative: A Comprehensive, Inclusive and Genuine Peace Process
