Lakes State yesterday joined other Southern Sudan States to mark the 5th anniversary of Martyrs’ Day.
People gathered at Rumbek Freedom Square to recall many known and unknown Sudanese who lost their lives during the many years of struggle for freedom.
Addressing the gathering, Lakes State Governor Chol Tong Mayay said the day recalls martyrs, heroes and heroines, and is not only reserved to SPLM/SPLA fallen heroes and heroines, but also many unknown soldiers who died in the struggle for freedom.
The Governor further said that the freedom being enjoyed today is a result of blood, shed by natives of this land, and challenged natives of Lakes State to keep a memory of all fallen heroes and heroines, together with the wounded, widows and orphans, for their immense contribution to our freedom”.
The Governor called upon leaders to show commitment to the principles and objectives for which the martyrs shed their blood.
He added that as the nation journeys towards the referendum, there is a need for self-examination, because Southerners will choose between being first class citizens and remaining second class citizens.
The Governor called upon the people of Lakes state, and all the people of Southern Sudan at large, to stand united and face the challenges at this moment of transition. He also urged citizens to remain cautious as they journey towards the decisive time of the referendum.
Other dignitaries present at the celebration to mark Martyrs’ Day included Lakes state Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker, Members of South Sudan Legislative Assembly and various ministers in the Lakes Government, plus representatives of UN bodies and Non-Governmental Organizations.