Rumbek SPLM assistant secretary warns youth against tribalism

June 4, 2013 (RUMBEK) – Lakes state’s assistant secretary for political affairs in Rumbek Central county has criticised a recent conference by South Sudan’s ruling party (SPLM), saying it encouraged tribalism.

Kawaja Kau Madol described the event as a deliberate attempt to mobilise ethnic groups against each other, adding that the country was facing increasing dangers from disaffected youth.

“We shall not address our security, social and political problems using levels of the administration that are not recognised by our constitution”, he said, adding that political power struggles were exacerbating tribal gaps in the young nation.

Significant numbers of young men remain jobless right across entire South Sudan’s 10 states, with many being encouraged by politicians on a tribal basis.

Bride prices have also increased, putting marriage out of reach for many young unemployed men.

Adding to the disillusionment already felt, senior officials continue to employ their relatives, while the majority with qualifications remain without a job.

Madol said the current situation threatened the future of the SPLM.

“It can disintegrate the spirit into many regional blocks/groupings that will eventually lead to breaking up of the party”, he said

He appealed to South Sudanese youth leaders and the SPLM stronghold in Lakes state needed to take greater control over issues affecting their own future and the country as a whole.

He said South Sudan remained on rocky ground, adding that peaceful political options, rather than tribalism should be encouraged in the lead up to the 2015 general election.

“I am appealing to all SPLM members of Rumbek Central county and especially youth to distance themselves from such tribal conferences as it is very dangerous and a bad beginning for such a young nation. We – young people – should not be misled by those whose days are gone already”, Kau said.

(ST)