Fellow South Sudanese, brothers and sisters at home and in the diaspora,

Today, July 9, 2026, we mark a historic milestone — the 15th anniversary of our hard-won Independence. On this day in 2011, our people stood united and declared the birth of the Republic of South Sudan after decades of courageous struggle and immense sacrifice. We salute the martyrs whose blood and unwavering determination made our freedom possible. Their legacy remains the foundation upon which our nation stands.

As leaders of the National Parties Alliance (NPA), we — Dr. Joseph M. Nyieth, Chairman of the NPA and Chairman of the Patriotic People’s Party (PPP), and Gen. Philip Stephen Dak Onwar, Deputy Chairman of the NPA and Chairman of the South Sudan National United Front and Army (SSNUF/A) — extend our warmest congratulations to all citizens of South Sudan on this auspicious occasion.

Fifteen years of independence have brought both achievements and significant challenges. Our nation has demonstrated remarkable resilience, but we must acknowledge with honesty the persistent difficulties: insecurity, economic hardship, humanitarian crises, and delays in implementing critical reforms such as security sector unification, the permanent constitution, transitional justice, and credible preparations for democratic elections.

These challenges test our national resolve, yet they also present an opportunity for renewal. True independence is not only sovereignty from external rule but the realization of peace, justice, equality, and prosperity for all our people — regardless of region, ethnicity, or political affiliation.

We call upon all South Sudanese — political leaders, security forces, civil society, youth, women, and the diaspora — to recommit ourselves to genuine national dialogue, inclusive governance, reconciliation, and the full implementation of peace agreements. The National Parties Alliance stands united and ready to collaborate with all peace-loving citizens to build the united, democratic, and prosperous South Sudan our martyrs envisioned.

On this 15th Independence Day, let us honor the past by forging a better future. May God Almighty bless the Republic of South Sudan and guide us toward lasting peace and development.

Long live South Sudan! Long live our Independence!

Signed,

Dr. Joseph M. Nyieth
Chairman, National Parties Alliance (NPA)
Chairman, Patriotic People’s Party (PPP)

Gen. Philip Stephen Dak Onwar
Deputy Chairman, National Parties Alliance (NPA)
Chairman, South Sudan National United Front and Army (SSNUF/A)