Learning objectives
- Recall key historical milestones presented in Chapter One.
- Explain the aspirations associated with independence.
- Identify root causes of conflict listed in the manifesto.
From liberation to independence
The manifesto traces South Sudan's conflict back to political disenfranchisement and economic marginalisation under Sudan. It notes the 1972 Addis Ababa Agreement, the renewed war from 1983 to 2005, the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2005 and the referendum that led to independence on 9 July 2011.
Post-independence aspirations
Independence brought broad hopes for peace, unity, services, infrastructure and national development. The manifesto argues that unresolved grievances, weak institutions, corruption, limited economic opportunity and political competition contributed to national instability.
Conflict since 2013
Chapter One describes the political dispute of December 2013 and its escalation into civil war, displacement, humanitarian crisis and economic decline. It also reviews the 2015 and 2018 peace agreements and identifies delays in security reform, elections, justice and implementation.
Root causes listed in the manifesto
- Ethnic rivalries and militarised politics.
- Power struggles within political leadership.
- Weak institutions and limited rule of law.
- Corruption and competition over resources, especially oil.
- Historical grievances from war and marginalisation.
Group discussion
Which historical lesson is most important for future leaders, and how should that lesson change the way they govern?