The Act of President Kiir Kissing the Hand of Religious And Political Leaders

President Salva Kiir’s recent act of kissing the hand of the Identify religious leader as Cardinal Gabriel Zubeir Wako, Whom others described as Governor Adil has sparked a heated debate among South Sudanese citizens and political analysts alike. Some view it as a sign of deference and respect, while others perceive it as a political gimmick overshadowing key issues in the nation’s governance. 

One argument in favor of President Kiir’s action revolves around cultural traditions that emphasize respect for elders and authority. 

In many African societies, showing reverence by kissing the hand of a respected senior is considered a sign of humility and loyalty. Advocates argue that President Kiir’s gesture is an embodiment of South Sudanese cultural heritage and an effort to maintain unity and harmony among political and religious leaders.

However, critics argue that such traditional displays can be easily exploited for political gain. Given the upcoming elections, this act has been seen by some cynics as a calculated attempt by President Kiir to curry favor with key political and religious figures in order to secure their support and consolidate his political standing. If this is indeed the case, it raises concerns about the authenticity of his actions and his commitment to genuine democratic principles.

While cultural traditions must be respected, it is essential to strike a balance between recognizing heritage and maintaining a professional political environment. A functional democracy requires that leaders be treated as equals and that their positions are earned through merit and the will of the people. 

South Sudan leaders should focus on addressing substantial challenges facing the nation, including issues like corruption, economic stability, security, and social development. The act of kissing the hand risks diverting public attention from these fundamental concerns and promoting a superficial approach to governance.

Author: Majur Chol Khor

Majur is a multi-media award-winning journalist, public relations specialist, documentary expert from South Sudan. You can easily connect with him through various platforms such as WhatsApp at +254 796 523 948, email at majurcholkhor@gmail.com, and social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.