Youth, civil society organizations, women and religious leaders in Imotong State, complain of poor governance leading to continuous conflict in the country.
The citizens complained during the consultative meeting with the national dialogue sub-committee in Torit, discussing the root causes or issues affecting South Sudan, Emmanuel Radio reports.
Imotong State Governor Tobiolo Alberio Oromo told citizens to deliberate their issues freely without any intimidation from security organs.
The citizens mentioned poor leadership and power struggle as the major causes of conflict in the country.
They called on the government to revisit the South Sudan’s constitution and follow it strictly to allow citizens enjoy their freedom.
The citizens called on the warring parties to consider public demands over their personal interests.
One of the participants, whose name is not mentioned for fear of insecurity, says political leaders in the country are power hungry.
The participant urges South Sudanese politicians to promote democracy to give citizens a chance to choose and elect the leader of their choice.
He says SPLM/A as a ruling party has lost its vision and mission.
Another citizen who identifies herself only as Mary for security purpose criticizes the leadership for unnecessary removal and appointment of leaders, without grassroots consultation.
An elder says having many generals in the country hinders Military command, expressing the need for the concerned authorities to reduce the number.
He stresses that mixing politics with the military drags the country backwards.
The elder calls for federal system of governance which he thinks will reduce the burden from the central government.
Another participant by the name Moses complained that South Sudanese are denied access to freedom of expression and opinion in the nation.
He tells both the state and national government to account for the lives and property lost in South Sudan.