16/05/2026
the Anniversary of the Founding – 16 May 1983
The 16th of May 1983 is commemorated as one of the most significant milestones in the history of the people of South Sudan.
It marks the beginning of the armed struggle and the founding of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLA/M), ushering in a new phase of struggle for freedom, justice, and equality.
On this historic day, the people of South Sudan united around a common national vision aimed at ending marginalization, restoring dignity, and building a state founded on justice and equal citizenship. The journey of struggle was marked by immense sacrifices made by martyrs and the wounded, ultimately paving the way for the realization of independence in 2011.
The people of South Sudan fought under one banner and for shared objectives, guided by the belief that unity and collective effort are essential to achieving national aspirations.
Prominent field leaders during that period embodied courage and sacrifice, playing decisive roles in key operations that protected lives and advanced the course of the struggle toward the agreements that led to independence.
On this occasion, we express, on behalf of the leaders and veterans of the struggle, deep appreciation and sorrow for the immense sacrifices endured by fighters on the frontlines. Many lost their lives, while others sustained severe injuries during the years of armed struggle, including leaders and fighters who faced harsh battlefield conditions with determination and courage despite suffering multiple gunshot wounds during the liberation struggle.
We further affirm that the vision and aspirations carried by the movement during the years of struggle have not been fully realized as the people of South Sudan had hoped. Therefore, all citizens are urged to remain patient, uphold unity, and work with a spirit of national responsibility and mutual understanding to overcome the current challenges.
This anniversary serves as a moment to renew commitment to the core values of that struggle—national unity, cooperation, mutual respect, and the rejection of tribalism and division.
The South Sudan United Front/Army (SSUF/A) emphasizes that the current phase requires all citizens to strengthen social cohesion, support peace and stability, and work toward building a secure, just, and prosperous nation.
The movement also calls upon all South Sudanese to learn from the past, remain patient in the face of challenges, and work together toward a future based on peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among all communities.
Gen. Paul Malong Awan
Chairman and Commander-in-Chief
South Sudan United Front/Army (SSUF/A