Africa-Press – South-Sudan. President Salva Kiir appealed to the public and the members of his party, the SPLM, to shun hate songs that incite people to violence as the election approaches.
While addressing the participants during the swearing-in ceremony of SPLM officials, Kiir cautioned all members of his party to avoid songs that may upset the other parties.
“As we approach the election, I wanted to tell you that hate songs must be abolished,” Kiir said.
The stage was all set at the SPLM House when the members of the party wanted to welcome him through songs and dances, but the head of state had a contrary opinion.
When his moment to deliver his speech arrived, the SPLM chairperson cautioned that the country was entering a fragile period of elections and that political songs, if in a bad light, could fan violent activities among its people. According to him, parties or individuals may end up feeling disgruntled as a result.
President Kiir stated that the public must emphasise songs that promote unity and love among the people.
He appealed to the artists who might have plans to come up with some songs that contained hate speech in them to stop releasing those songs.
“If there is anyone who wants to produce a new song that can spread hatred, please let him or her stop.”
Kiir urged all the SPLM members to join hands with the public to ensure that peace prevails in South Sudan.
Outstanding tasks
Early this week, President Salva Kiir once again revived the election talk with a bold promise for a peaceful poll slated for 2024, emphasising that his government will work to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.
With less than 24 months remaining to the exercise, whose preparations are yet to gain ground, the head of state used his national address on the eve of SPLA Day to remind the citizens that he was committed to a successful transition as envisaged in the roadmap.
Even though the head of state has openly spoken about the government’s commitment to holding an election in December 2024, the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission noted in its monthly report released on May 25 that the country was lagging behind in fast-tracking the implementation of the revitalised peace agreement under the roadmap.
For instance, the commission’s interim chairperson, Maj Gen rtd Charles Gituai, noted that the operationalization of the Political Parties Act was long overdue, as was the constitution-making process, which awaits the renewal of the mandate of the National Constitution Amendment Committee (NCAC).
Source: The City Review
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