Political Quotes

“I rise this evening to call attention to the disturbing developments in Sudan and the newly created nation of South Sudan. I fear the ongoing violence there risks undermining the progress that has been made for lasting peace after decades of civil war and bloodshed. It has been indeed a historic year for the people of South Sudan. Almost 3 months ago, on July 9, South Sudan was formally recognized as a sovereign nation, becoming Africa's 54th state. An overwhelming 98.8 percent of South Sudanese voters chose independence from the central government of Sudan in the referendum held this January. For the millions of people whose lifetimes have known only war, the hope of a better future was finally on the horizon. Like many, I was cautiously encouraged by the news that the South Sudanese decided to take a path toward democracy and toward justice. Like many, I realized this path would be a difficult one as conflict persists in Darfur and other areas around the border, such as Abyei, Blue Nile, and Southern Kordofan. Unfortunately, recent reports of violence confirm the tenuous relationship between north and south that exists in the wake of independence. Escalating unrest points to the abandonment of peaceful negotiations by the north and a return to military intimidation and fighting. Tragically, civilians have been caught in the crossfire.…”