Southern Sudan South Sudan or Both?: A Personal Opinion Article
Southern Sudan, South Sudan, or both? This question must be addressed both individually and collectively, regardless of whether one is South Sudanese. Since the 9th of July 2011, Sudan has been irrevocably changed, as the late Dr. Garang foresaw during the Comprehensive Agreement signing in 2005, before his untimely death.
More than a decade ago, South Sudan ceased to be part of Sudan; hence, it cannot be referred to as Southern Sudan or Sudan any longer. Geographically and politically, it stands as a distinct republic, the Republic of South Sudan.
But Does Every South Sudanese Know This Fact?
Firstly, it’s important to clarify that there is no country called Northern Sudan. Unlike the situation in Korea, which has North Korea and South Korea as two distinct nations, there is only Sudan and South Sudan. Often, there is a subconscious assumption that if there is a South Sudan, there must be a North Sudan, but this is not the case. There is no country called North Sudan.
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However, This Is Never the Case!
Additionally, it’s important to note that in English, terms like northern, eastern, western, or southern refer to a region within the same territory or country. Hence, we are no longer referred to as Southern Sudan, implying a part of the larger entity of Sudan.
Furthermore, although the Arabic term (Junub) used to denote our esteemed country suggests a connection to the South, it does not imply that we are a part of Sudan.
In Arabic, South Sudan is commonly known as Junub, which translates to ‘South’ or ‘the South’ (el Junub). It’s also worth noting that the spelling can vary as Janub, Jenub, Jinub, Jonub, or Junub, yet it consistently signifies ‘South.’ This variation is due to the absence of vowels between the letters J, N, and B in Arabic. But junub of what? In Arabic, it’s clear people meant the south of the Sudan, which is the root cause of this argument.
The Confusion
The confusion arises when the term “South” (Junub) is automatically interpreted as a region within a larger entity, in this case, Sudan. It’s perfectly fine to have differing views, as it’s common to agree to disagree on various topics. However, the matter at hand is quite serious. It’s serious because it causes us to look back towards Egypt (Sudan), much like the Israelites in the desert.
Yet, we have departed from the old Sudan (our Egypt) to establish a new and distinct nation, complete with its own government, people, territory, and resources. This is crucial because without a national perspective, we cannot evolve into the nation we aim to be in the foreseeable future. A country is defined by its identity, which exists not only on paper but also in the hearts and minds of its citizens.
And I Am Trying to Create That Mind and Mentality in You!
Consider this: if you are South Sudanese by birth, you are not Sudanese, just as you are not Kenyan, Ugandan, Ethiopian, Central African, or Congolese. Each of these neighboring countries has its own distinct identity, shaped by various factors including their names and geographical locations, among others.
Should you travel to Sudan, you are required to present an entry visa, which signifies that you are a foreigner in that country. You must fulfill the entry requirements; otherwise, you will be denied entry unless you choose to do so illegally. This fact alone is quite telling. Why is there confusion when the situation is so evident?
My Message
You may be curious about the manner of my writing. The reason is straightforward, and the message is simple: you are a South Sudanese. Embracing a national identity makes you distinct and extraordinary, providing you with a unique identity among people of different nationalities.
Everywhere we go, we are referred to as Sudanese. Why is this the case? It is because we have not made a clear distinction between Sudan and South Sudan. Indeed, it was an oversight to include “Sudan” in our name. Perhaps we should have chosen a name like the Cush Republic, Azania Republic, and others, something that holds significance for us and dispels any confusion about being a separate nation from Sudan.
But There Is Still Hope!
Understanding and embracing your identity is the beacon of hope. This is the essence of my message to you. We are the Republic of South Sudan, distinct from Sudan, yet this does not sever our ties with the motherland. It simply affirms our separate nationhood.
Let the spirit of South Sudan shape your stance wherever you may be. Discontent with current leadership should not dampen your love for self or country. Change is inevitable. Cherish your identity, your homeland, and its people. Strive to create a positive legacy.
My contributions are through writing, publishing books, and translating between English, Dinka, Nuer, and Juba Arabic. I also design, develop, and maintain secure, professional, and user-friendly websites, assisting others in getting published both digitally and in print. My work transcends politics, even though my books carry historical and political undertones.
Reflect on your actions. Is your day consumed with criticism of others, of leaders? Is that your sole purpose? Recognize who you are and the essence of your country. Consider these thoughts. I am currently penning a satire titled ‘The Bleeding Scars.’ I would appreciate your perspective on it.
About The Author
John Monyjok Maluth, also known as Wiyua̱l Tut Lew or John Shalom, is a multifaceted South Sudanese personality. He is an author, blogger, motivational speaker, social media marketer, translator, web designer, and publisher. An introvert at heart, John cherishes peace and harmony among individuals as well as between humans and nature. His love for his homeland, South Sudan, its people, and its natural wealth is profound.
Further Readings
- What’s The Difference Between Sudan and South Sudan? – Oxfam America.
- South Sudan country profile – BBC.
- Republic of South Sudan – East African Community.