Kiir calls for 'belt-tightening' to cope with hardships
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has advised the citizens of South Sudan to work hard to cope with the economic hardships in the country caused by the closure of oil production.
“After we shut down our oil production we are running short of fuel and other services, but we are going to struggle like this until we get a solution. We must tighten our belts until a solution is found,” Kiir advised.
The President made the remarks at the occasion to mark the 29th anniversary of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army at the Dr Garang Mausoleum in Juba yesterday.
South Sudan shut down its oil production in January over transit fees dispute with Khartoum. Juba authorities also alleged that Khartoum was stealing their oil.
Kiir further advised that rather than spend time talking about the past, people should concentrate on the current challenges in order to address the situation for a better future.
“You all know we need infrastructure, health centre, clean water, roads, and electricity. Whom do you think will do it for us? We must work hard to develop this country,” he said.
He called on the citizens to get away from the culture of getting free food and instead take advantage of the vast fertile soils and rains to engage in agriculture to ensure food security. Kiir particularly deplored the unproductive practices of some youth.
“Whenever I am going to church on Sunday, I see many youth sitting and talking, playing cards, dice, chess, and domino. These are not the activities for the rainy season if we are to get rid of hunger, but we must till the land,” he said.
The President advised against drinking alcohol in the morning.
“Bars should not open in the morning hours, but when we say this people say we want to bring Sharia law,” the President said.
Speaking about Jonglei disarmament the President said the SPLA has done a good job there and are still hunting down civilians who do not want to hand over guns.
He warned against increasing child abduction in Central Equatoria, as reported by the deputy Governor.
“What do you want to do with people’s children, stop these things,” he warned.
Earlier the deputy Governor of Central Equatoria, Manase Lomole had said that 164 children had been abducted in his state, especially in Lokiliri payam over the years.
