South Sudan (1): the case against separation

It had been clear from the outset that South Sudanese have a case for separation. However, before taking that angle, let us discuss the case against separation.

Secession is no longer palatable in the world. The African Union is pushing for 'African Union' and not keen on already established countries to break up. A united Africa is what they want and therefore frowns at South Sudan to even thnk about such options. The former leader of the movement Dr John Garang de Mabior is clever not to raise it. He always says he is fighting for a new Sudan, and won hearts around the world.

The other reason is that of capacity. As mentioned by the British before independence, South Sudan is not capable of being a nation on its own. It is still lacking in capacity and competence. Iliteracy is widespread, no infrastructure of any kind, and could not survive on its own.

Many people also believe that the South Sudanese lack the vision of a nation. Its societies are still broken along tribal lines. There are still tribal rivalries between the big three tribes: dinka, nuer and shilluk. If South is to separate, there will surely be another war among themselves for power! The NIF seems to use this fault line very well indeed!

With lack of capacity at the top, South Sudan could easily deteriorate into another Somalia. Foreign countries could easily plunder the vast resources of the country.

What could avoid the South State from goiung into war with the North? The wide border between them could be potential for trouble spots, along the oil fields located close to the North.

How true are these arguements? It will not be easy to sell such ideas to South Sudanese though! These are just a collection of the few being trowled around. Next let us turn to the case for for separation.