Renowned South Sudanese artist and visionary figure, General Paulino Isaka, has issued a heartfelt call for national unity, responsible leadership, and improved social welfare during a live appearance on the Peace Forum program on Radio Bakhita 91 FM in Juba.
Addressing the economic challenges facing citizens, General Masaka expressed concern over the delayed payment of salaries, which he said has pushed some musicians to produce songs that praise individual leaders just to make ends meet.
“People need salaries. When you see soldiers taking bribes on the streets, it’s because they are in need. It destroys their dignity. If I am paid enough, why should I beg?” he asked.
General Isaka urged citizens and leaders alike not to become sources of suffering for their own people. He emphasized that power should be used to uplift others—not for self-enrichment or exploitation.
“Let everyone know this: do not be the reason your people or your country suffer. No one is better than the other. Do not misuse the power you have today—use it to do something meaningful so people can believe in you,” he said.
He further stated that all citizens share a collective responsibility to reject wrongdoing and corruption.
“It is our responsibility as citizens—if you see something bad, do not support it,” Masaka urged.
He lamented the increasing unemployment among educated youth and criticized the reality of South Sudanese citizens doing low-paying, manual labor for foreign-owned companies dominating local markets.
“It is shameful to see our graduates working as manual laborers in their own country while foreign businesses thrive. This is not the future our fallen heroes died for,” he said.
Masaka also emphasized that the sacrifices made by South Sudan’s freedom fighters were not in vain, and that citizens must honor them by working together to build a better, more equitable nation.
“Those who died in the struggle gave their lives so we could enjoy our country. We must live up to that responsibility,” he said.
He concluded by urging leaders to prioritize the needs of the people and ensure that every citizen has access to a dignified life.
“Our leaders must bring people together and support the citizens of South Sudan to have the better life they deserve,” General Masaka said.
