South Sudan became the world’s newest nation early today, officially breaking away from Sudan after two civil wars over five decades that cost the lives of at least two million people.Residents of the new nation – the Republic of South Sudan – danced in the streets, banged on jerry cans and chanted the name of the world’s newest president, Salva Kiir.
South Sudan earned independence at 12.01am this morning, the culmination of a January independence vote guaranteed in a 2005 peace deal that ended the most recent north-south war.
The early morning celebrations were joyous for the freedom gained but tinged with the memories of family members lost.
Chol Allen, a 32-year-old minister, escaped Sudan in 2003 and eventually settled in Memphis, Tennessee. He returned to Juba two months ago for the midnight party, although he plans to go back to the US.
“I came here for this moment,” he said. “We were all born into war. All of us,” he said while pointing at a crowded pick-up truck of youngsters. “This generation will see the hope of the newborn nation.”
Abdule Taban wore a wide smile during the night’s street party but the 25-year-old was also reflective. Read the rest on:
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