David Ayuel

One amusing things about this anticipated election is that almost every candidate seems to be running under the SPLM. Nobody appears willing to challenge the party, despite the magnitude of its failures. I acknowledge that the SPLM is a revolutionary movement that played a historic role in liberating our country. However, the question remains: how did it lose its track post independence? We are no longer fighting the Khartoum government or struggling for independence. The struggle has changed and so must our politics. Today, we need ideas, policies, accountability and a clear vision for national development. Yes, liberation history deserves recognition, but it must never become a permanent licence to govern. Democracy demands competition and our people deserve the freedom to choose leaders based on their ideas and performance, not merely their revolutionary credentials. I actually have no problem with revolutionary credentials, but must be of benefit to the ordinary citizens. Of course, you may disagree with my opinion, but meaningful change begins with the courage to overcome fear. Before the SPLM, there were other movements championing the liberation struggle. Yet, Dr. John Garang and his colleagues had the courage to establish a new movement rather than remain confined to the existing political arrangements. History has since recorded the SPLM's contribution to our liberation sine its inception. If Garang and cohorts had feared, there wouldn’t be any thing like SPLM now. My message to young people is simple: dare to explore alternatives. Do not allow political loyalty, fear of rejection, or the anxiety of losing elections to hold you hostage within the SPLM. Political movements are vehicles for advancing ideas and serving the people, not prisons that dictate where your political ambitions must begin and end. If we genuinely believe in democracy, we must be prepared to challenge the status quo, build alternative movements, and compete on the strength of our ideas. Personally, if I ever decide to contest an election, I would rather run as an independent candidate than allow political affiliation to limit my freedom of thought and action. South Sudan needs a new generation of leaders who are courageous enough to think independently, challenge established political traditions and put the future of the nation above loyalty to individuals or any political movement. #SOX

I am profoundly disturbed and dismayed by the egregious acts of violence and abuse being perpetrated against vulnerable people in our country, especially the disturbing incident involving the rape of a child that is circulated online. Such acts are not only morally reprehensible and inhumane, but also constitute serious criminal offenses that warrant unequivocal condemnation. The grotesque violation of an innocent child is barbaric, depraved, and an assault on our collective humanity. Those responsible must be relentlessly pursued, prosecuted without leniency, and subjected to the full severity of the law. A society is judged by how it protects its most vulnerable. We must collectively reject evil, defend human dignity, and uphold justice without compromise. #JusticeForVictim

In South Sudan, holding public office is viewed as an opportunity to benefit one's community, rather than simply a civic responsibility. Communities heavily rely on their sons and daughters in government to secure financial support and other advantageous opportunities. A government appointee from a specific community is regarded as a valuable asset, providing unparalleled access to essential resources and employment prospects. Upon appointment, community members gather at the appointee's residence to display loyalty, and resources are swiftly mobilised to stage celebrations, including congratulatory messages in newspapers and on billboards. Praise and songs are composed in honor of the appointee, as if he had won an election, despite being appointed by an individual. Entrepreneurs shower him with gifts, such as cars and hotel suites, in anticipation of lucrative contracts and kickbacks. During the appointee's tenure, many community members transform into sycophants and self-appointed defenders. However, when the appointee is decreed out, the façade crumbles and allegiances dissolve.The sycophants then redirect their attention to the next appointee, initiating a fresh cycle of fervor. Honestly, to fix this beloved country won't be easy at all, even after the fall of the baobab tree. It will require more than statesmanship, but also total liberation. If this post hurts you, I’m sorry! take a glass of cold water and you will be fine. #SSOX

Imperialism has not only posed threat to global peace, but also undermined nations sovereignty and international’s law integrity. The USA has set a concerning precedent for weaker states.

The violence being perpetuated by SPLM IO in the Upper Nile region, aimed at overthrowing Kiir's ineffective government, further destabilizes the nation, while burgeoning tribal tensions exacerbate the situation. Rather than offering tangible solutions to ineffective governance, violence and conflict eliminate hopes for prosperity, leaving no room for optimism. It is imperative that we condemn violence in all its forms, regardless of the perpetrator, be it Kiir's administration or the opposition.#SSOX

As I reflect on the journey that has shaped me, I offer profound gratitude to the Lord Almighty for His unwavering guidance and grace. I am thankful for the formative experiences that have contributed to my growth, the resilience forged through challenges and the compassion that continues to anchor my purpose. Drawing on the lessons of previous years, I entered 2025 with renewed determination and a readiness to embrace emerging opportunities. By God’s grace, many of these goals were realised and as the year closes, I remain committed to navigating the ongoing complexities of growth and self-development. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, I am filled with optimism and enthusiasm as I prepare to explore new frontiers and unlock greater potential for a stronger future. With a hopeful heart, I extend my warmest wishes to my family, relatives and my amazing friends for a year defined by deep peace, enduring prosperity and collective progress, as we move forward together in unity, resilience and mutual support. Happy 2026 my #SSOX family 🙏🏾

I do not dispute the fact that she is human and could have genuine sympathy for those affected at some point, but this is not evident in this particular incident. It is clear that she was pursuing a social media campaign to garner public sympathy. Adut is aware that the public has lost trust in her father's administration and that she has been at the center of discussions regarding corruption. The public is also aware that her company collects taxes on behalf of the government, which facilitates embezzlement. Shedding crocodile tears is not sympathy when you’re part of the course inflicting pain on the people. This trait of acting for the cameras is something Adut has demonstrated all along, starting when she decided to take part in her father’s administration. She began by visiting villages in Bhar El Gazal under the guise of offering relief and meeting with older veterans for photo shows, without implementing any tangible improvements. If she is genuinely emotional about the country's affairs, she could have taken actions to elevate the situation, such as releasing the taxes collected by her company to government agencies and channeling them appropriately. She could also convince her father to prosecute all corrupt officials who make it difficult for services to be delivered to citizens. That way, I would be convinced that she sympathizes with the masses; otherwise, my opinion on her cannot change.

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What happened today in Baliet County, Adong Payam, is a horrific and senseless massacre of innocent, unarmed civilians. This brutality must be condemned in the strongest terms. Violence should never be accepted no matter which community is targeted. The Government of South Sudan has once again failed in its basic duty to protect its people. Its persistent corruption and inability to end recurring cycles of violence continue to cost innocent lives. We cannot remain silent. Peace must prevail. Instead of prioritizing the safety of its citizens, the government focuses on political appointments and only reacts when its legitimacy is threatened while ordinary people are left to kill themselves. #SSOX

At this rate, Kiir may even appoint his daughter or wife as First Vice President and if he does so, it is doubtful whether anyone or institution can question him. This man appears to be unaccountable, seemingly fearing no one, not even God. The ramshakle SPLM has elevated him to an unprecedented deity level. To him, he embodies South Sudan and South Sudan is his sole domain. In corporate terms, he is operating like a sole proprietor.#SSOX

One word to describe President Kiirdit, please #SSOX

A concerning question is who is pulling the strings in SSD. Is it the lobbyists, appointees or the big cheese appointer? What a confused system. When we criticize the old man, the defense team thinks our concerns are just a big hate fest. I just can't wait for a procedural administration.#SSOX

I commend the national security for apprehending the soldier who threatened the elderly woman in Bor; the institution has demonstrated a significant step towards accountability, however, the same commitment should be extended to cases that have not received social media attention but have also been reported not only in Bor but across the country. #SS0X

I just watched a viral video depicting NSS/SSPDF soldier harassing an elderly woman in Bor, which I found deeply distressing and reflective of the experiences of many South Sudanese, particularly in remote areas where such incidents often go unrecorded or unreported . It is worth considering what would have transpired if this incident in Bor had not been videotaped. Event after being recorded or going viral, I still have little faith in the authorities for any remedial action. It is evident that not only the people of Bor require community protection but other vulnerable communities as well, given that we have a government that fails on her constitutional mandate to safeguard citizens and instead subjects them to harassment and torture. This is reminiscent of the events that transpired in Nasir earlier this year, which later escalated into a larger chaos, resulting in the loss of more innocent civilian lives. This particular soldier and his commanding officers must be held accountable.#SSOX

If I ever aspire to join a political party, Nhail Deng is a visionary leader who embodies the kind of inspiring and forward thinking leadership that I would profoundly support and learn from.#SSOX

Do you still find it difficult to comprehend the context surrounding the trial of Dr. Riek Machar and others, and its anticipated outcome, raising concerns about discriminatory justice? This picture might provide insight into whether your judiciary maintains independence from political influence. #SSOX

It is essential to appear in court well prepared, and the defense team did exactly what was expected of them. Defense’s presentation was indeed impressive. Dr. Gerri demonstrated the hallmark of a skilled defense lawyer. Conversely, my senior colleague and friend, Advocate Ajo delivered his best efforts, showcasing not only his competence but also his exceptional character. I am pleased that this case will establish a legal precedent and lay a foundation not only for the observation of rule of law but for emerging legal talent to be exposed. Now you can all see how sweet the legal profession is 😂 I look forward to seeing you all in the courtroom someday day in the future. For now, let me get back to the library and accumulate more legal knowledge as much as possible 📚😂#SSOX

Someone should inform our lawyer sister that the doctrine of equality clearly states: 'he who seeks justice must come with clean hands.' In this matter, her hands are not clean. She essentially orchestrated this situation, and recording a private conversation and sharing it publicly also has legal repercussions. The phrase 'f***k you' is insufficient ingredient to sustain a claim of sexual assault. Her actions in the audio, specifically the repeated requests for David Amour's physical whereabouts, constitute intimidation on her part. If I were Amour's lawyer, I would file a counterclaim against her. There is sufficient evidence of numerous comments indicating that she has continuously attacked Majur on his Facebook account multiple times. Yes, we acknowledge that we may have incompetent and corrupt public officials; however, that does not warrant disrespect and gaslighting them. #SSOX