Residents in Juba vowed not to change their vote during the referendum simply because the President of the republic visited the region five days ahead of the polls.
SCRN news caught up with some people who were waiting for Omar al-Bashir’s visit in the streets of Juba.Roger Jek said he was eager to receive the president because he was the only Arab who declared to be willing to let South Sudan go as an independent country.
Taban Tongoya said that he would welcome the president warmly because the CPA granted him that title until the South becomes independent.
Mr. Tongoya said he would vote for separation all the same.
William, a student at Juba University, said Mr. Al-Bashir was in Juba to know whether the people of south Sudan would vote for unity or separation.
He added that the visit was also a farewell to South Sudanese.
Richard Wani Clement said he welcomed President Al-Bashir because Sudan is still united.
Mr Wani added that the president promised to accept the results of the referendum whatever the outcome and support an independent South Sudan in the event of secession.
The visit went well with many soldiers and police officers in the streets and some residents waving separation flags.