By Kenyi Ya Kenyi,
13/10/2025
South Sudanese Advocate & Human Rights Lawyer Kenyi YA Kenyi on Why Only Equatoria Can Stand as a Viable and Independent State in South Sudan.
The human rights lawyer Kenyi has highlighted that among all regions of South Sudan, Equatoria alone meets the criteria to exist as a viable and independent state. Speaking on the issue of state viability amid South Sudan’s ongoing governance crises, Kenyi emphasized the unique political, social, and economic strengths of Equatoria compared to Bahr el Ghazal and Upper Nile.
“The question of which region can govern itself effectively, peacefully, and sustainably has never been more urgent,” Kenyi stated.
“By every legal, political, and economic measure, Equatoria stands out as the only region capable of maintaining stability and building a prosperous society.”
Drawing lessons from history, Kenyi compared the situation to the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, which produced seven independent nations, including Slovenia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, many of which went on to thrive politically and economically.
“When unity becomes oppression and dysfunction, independence can be the path to peace and progress,” he explained.
“If South Sudan were ever to restructure into self-governing entities, Equatoria would be the only region capable of functioning as an independent and prosperous state — potentially surpassing Uganda and Kenya in governance, peace, and development.”
Key Strengths of Equatoria Highlighted by Advocate Kenyi:
1. Stable and Diverse Population:
Equatoria is home to more than 42 tribes who have coexisted peacefully for generations. Kenyi noted that this cultural harmony forms the foundation of a stable and cohesive society, in contrast to regions where inter-communal conflict is common.
2. Defined Territory and Functional Governance:
Equatoria’s borders—from the Nile to the Ugandan and Kenyan frontiers—are clearly defined. The region’s counties and local governments remain functional even during times of national chaos, demonstrating strong institutional capacity and administrative efficiency.
3. Commitment to Rule of Law and Civil Order:
Kenyi emphasized that Equatoria’s governance is rooted in law, accountability, and constitutionalism, rather than militarized authority.
“Authority in Equatoria flows from civil legitimacy, not the barrel of a gun,” he said.
4. Monopoly on Force and Internal Stability:
Unlike other regions plagued by tribal militias and warlords, Equatoria maintains a culture of civilian governance and internal security, ensuring peace and stability.
5. Economic Strength and Self-Reliance:
Blessed with fertile land, forests, and abundant agricultural potential, Equatoria can sustain its population and fund public services. Its position along the Nimule–Juba trade corridor connects it to Uganda and Kenya, making it a strategic economic hub.
6. Responsive and Legitimate Institutions:
Governance in Equatoria involves chiefs, elders, religious leaders, and civil society organizations, creating an inclusive system that ensures accountability and legitimacy.
7. Social Cohesion and Shared Identity:
Kenyi highlighted that Equatoria’s identity is civic rather than tribal. Its citizens share values of peace, education, and hard work, which strengthen unity amid diversity.
8. Ready for Self-Governance:
Proximity to neighbouring countries and the region’s political maturity position Equatoria for autonomy or statehood. Kenyi stressed that its people are politically conscious, reform-oriented, and committed to democracy and the rule of law.
Conclusion:
“The international criteria for statehood — permanent population, defined territory, effective government, sovereignty, and capacity to govern — all point to one conclusion: Equatoria has the political maturity, institutional strength, and social cohesion necessary to exist as an independent and viable state,” Kenyi affirmed.
“Just as Yugoslavia’s breakup allowed its successor states to thrive, a reimagined South Sudan could follow a similar path based on regional capability and the will of the people. Equatoria stands as the clearest example of a governable, peaceful, and prosperous state in the country.”
Kenyi concluded that if given the freedom to chart its own course, Equatoria could prosper even beyond Uganda and Kenya, offering Africa a new model of unity, good governance, and sustainable development.
END.
The opinion expressed here is solely the author's.
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