Sudan and South Sudan.
- Peter Makueip
- December 11, 2023
- 1:14 pm
South Sudan:
The Beginning of the Struggle for Political Emancipation, 1947–2004.
South Sudan’s journey towards political emancipation was marked by a complex and tumultuous history, spanning from 1947 to 2004. The region’s struggle for autonomy and self-determination was deeply rooted in historical, social, and political factors, which ultimately culminated in the establishment of the world’s newest nation in 2011.
The origins of South Sudan’s quest for political emancipation can be traced back to the post-World War II era when the people of the region began to assert their aspirations for self-governance. In 1947, the Juba Conference laid the groundwork for political engagement, marking an initial step towards addressing the concerns and grievances of the southern Sudanese communities. However, the subsequent years witnessed a series of challenges, including economic disparities, cultural differences, and power struggles between the north and south, which exacerbated tensions and sowed the seeds for future conflicts.
The first Sudanese Civil War (1955-1972) erupted as a manifestation of the deep-seated issues facing the nation. The Addis Ababa Agreement in 1972 offered a temporary respite by granting the south a degree of autonomy, but it failed to address the root causes of the conflict. Economic disparities, political marginalization, and cultural differences persisted, leading to renewed hostilities in 1983.
The second Sudanese Civil War (1983-2005) was a protracted and devastating conflict that further underscored the struggles of the southern Sudanese people. The government’s imposition of Islamic law and the neglect of the south’s development needs fueled discontent and resistance. The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A), under the leadership of figures like John Garang, emerged as a prominent force advocating for the rights and autonomy of the people of South Sudan.
The Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) of 2005 marked a significant turning point in South Sudan’s quest for political emancipation. Brokered with international mediation, the agreement brought an end to the second civil war and paved the way for a six-year interim period during which the south would enjoy a degree of self-governance. The agreement also included provisions for a referendum on independence, allowing the people of South Sudan to decide their political future.
In January 2011, the people of South Sudan participated in a historic referendum, overwhelmingly voting for secession from Sudan. On July 9, 2011, South Sudan officially declared its independence, becoming the world’s newest nation. The journey from the post-World War II era to the establishment of an independent South Sudan was marked by sacrifice, resilience, and determination, as the people of the region sought to overcome a legacy of conflict and secure their political emancipation.
The relationship between the southern regions and the British has deep historical roots, marked by a complex interplay of colonization, economic exploitation, cultural influence, and struggles for autonomy. The interaction between the South and the British spans various periods and contexts, shaping the social, economic, and political landscape of the regions involved.
Colonial Era:
The British colonial presence in the southern parts of the world was significant, with regions like Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Oceania coming under British rule. In Africa, for example, the British Empire expanded its influence, establishing colonies and protectorates in territories that would later become countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. This colonization had profound and lasting effects on the societies and cultures of the regions involved.
Economic Exploitation:
One of the primary motivations behind British colonial endeavors was economic gain. The South, with its abundance of natural resources, became a target for British economic exploitation. Plantations in the Caribbean produced sugar, while African colonies were a source of valuable minerals and other raw materials. The economic relationship was often characterized by the extraction of resources for the benefit of the British Empire, leading to significant social and economic disparities in the colonized regions.
Cultural Impact:
British colonialism left an enduring imprint on the cultures of the southern regions. Language, legal systems, education, and governance structures were often shaped by British influence. The spread of the English language, for example, became a lasting legacy, contributing to its status as a global lingua franca. However, this cultural influence was not unidirectional, as the colonized societies also left their mark on the British Empire, influencing literature, cuisine, and social practices.
Struggles for Autonomy:
While the British Empire left an indelible mark, it also sparked resistance and movements for autonomy in many southern regions. Colonized peoples, inspired by nationalistic fervour and a desire for self-determination, began to challenge British rule. This resistance took various forms, from nonviolent movements led by figures like Mahatma Gandhi in India to armed struggles for independence in Africa.
Legacy and Post-Colonial Relations:
The decolonization process in the mid-20th century led to the establishment of independent nations in the South. Post-colonial relations between these nations and the former colonial power were often complex. The legacy of colonialism, including economic dependencies, political instabilities, and social inequalities, continued to shape the interactions between the The South and the British.
In summary, the relationship between the South and the British is a multifaceted narrative encompassing colonization, economic exploitation, cultural exchange, and struggles for autonomy.It has left an enduring impact on both the former colonies and the British Empire, shaping the course of history, and influencing contemporary global dynamics.
The political landscape of Sudan has witnessed a tumultuous and often challenging journey, marked by periods of conflict, upheaval, and instability. The phrase “The Ugly Turn of Sudanese Politics” encapsulates a narrative of power struggles, human rights abuses, economic crises, and the enduring quest for political stability and social justice.
1. Civil Conflicts:
Sudan has experienced multiple civil conflicts that have left an indelible mark on its political trajectory. The Darfur conflict, which erupted in the early 2000s, resulted in widespread displacement, loss of life, and accusations of human rights violations. Similarly, the prolonged Sudanese Civil War (1983-2005) between the north and the south was a devastating chapter in the nation’s history, leading to the eventual secession of South Sudan.
2. Authoritarian Rule:
For much of its modern history, Sudan endured periods of authoritarian rule, characterized by military coups and repressive regimes. Omar al-Bashir’s presidency, which began in 1989, was marked by human rights abuses, economic mismanagement, and international isolation. The regime’s response to dissent was often harsh, with reports of political repression, censorship, and violence against protesters.
3. Economic Challenges:
Sudan faced severe economic challenges that further exacerbated political tensions. Factors such as mismanagement, corruption, and the loss of oil revenue due to South Sudan’s secession in 2011 contributed to economic downturns. The resulting hardships, including hyperinflation and high unemployment rates, fueled public dissatisfaction and unrest.
4. Separation of South Sudan:
The secession of South Sudan in 2011, following a referendum, was a critical moment in Sudanese politics. While it marked the end of a protracted civil war, it also highlighted the deep-seated ethnic, religious, and regional divisions within the country. The loss of significant territory and resources further strained Sudan’s political and economic stability.
5. Transition Period:
In more recent times, Sudan has embarked on a path of political transition after mass protests in 2018-2019 led to the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir. The transitional government, consisting of both civilian and military leaders, faces the complex challenge of navigating the country toward democratic governance and addressing the grievances of a diverse population.
The Ugly Turn of Sudanese Politics”
“The Ugly Turn of Sudanese Politics” thus refers to the unfortunate twists and turns that have marred the political landscape. It speaks to the hardships faced by the Sudanese people, the legacies of conflict and authoritarianism, and the ongoing efforts to redefine the nation’s political future. The challenges are immense, but there remains hope for a Sudanese political landscape that is characterized by stability, inclusivity, and respect for human rights.
