The event, which was organized by a private business entity Achai Wiir and sold as a “peace concert”, has drawn huge criticism on social media.
The Tanzanian artist was accorded a diplomatic welcome that attracted president Kiir and top government officials.
Diamond was also accorded national stages such as Dr. John Garang Mausoleum and Freedom Hall for his performances.
Announcing the event on his social media account, a former South Sudan ambassador to the United States, Amb. Ezekiel Lol Gatkuoth, said President Kiir attended the event that he describes as “the best way to end the year.”
“His Excellency General Salva Kiir Mayardit the President of the Republic of South Sudan attended a “Peace Concert” today December 26, 2020 at John Garang Mausoleum.” Lol said,
“This is the best way to end 2020 in South Sudan.” He continued.
“The big giants of Music in South Sudan and Africa were there Diamond Platinums, Gordon Koang Duoth, Emmanuel Kembe and many more to entertain the thousands of South Sudanese and Africans who turned up in huge numbers to enjoy peace at last in Juba.” Lol Gatkuoth said.
Lol also confirmed that thousands turned up during the controversial event at the “Freedom Hall”.
“The same also was the case last night on December 25, 2020 in “Freedom Hall” and I was privileged to attend.” Lol said.
Looking at the pictures that are trending on social media and the cost of the events, many South Sudanese condemned the behavior potrayed in the “Freedom Hall” and the attention that was given to this particular event against COVID-19 rules.
Speaking to Nyamilepedia this evening, Ambassador Professor David de Chand Ruach described the event as a waste of resources and a shame to the country.
According to Professor de Chand, who blamed the politicians for focusing on their short-term happiness, the citizens are languishing in floods or suffering on the street in poor conditions and therefore such money could have been used to help the citizens
“That money should have been used to help the poor who are suffering in the floods or on the streets of Juba. What are they even celebrating when there is no peace in the country?” Said Prof. de Chand, speaking from the United States,
“They should feel ashamed of themselves”
“Look, if he takes away 5 millions U.S. Dollar or just say 10,000 USD dollar, such money will leave the country and for a country that has a failing economy due to lack of hard currency, this is an act of suicide”.
“A business woman brought this guy from TZ to perform in Christmas day with some profit, the concert got nothing to do with peace.” said Guzulu M. Konyi
“Can’t you foresee that the event will be a Super Spreader of COVID 19 or are you telling me that there’s no COVID in S Sudan! Sad” Said Jikany A. Both.
“What you are doing is a curse, thousands of South Sudanese are in the POCs as IDPS, some are in the outskirts of Juba, Malakal , Bor, and Bentiu . What you are demonstrating is a humiliation of South Sudanese. You have put our culture at stake and misussed your money for wrong cause … peace is not parties or concerts, rather it is an inner feelings of tranquility, love , togetherness, faithfulness. You are just doing show off.” Said Chol Anyuan Riak
