January 6, 2015
Re: Congratulatory Message
Dear Major General Simon Dual,
January 6, 2015 (SSNA) — On behalf of the Dak in Three community members in the United States (a Lou Nuer sub-section), and as a chairperson of the community, I would like to congratulate you for your recent appointment as chief of general staff of the SPLM/A in Opposition. You have a long, proven, and decorated career within the grassroots community as a paramount chief in the greater Lou Nuer area, and in the South Sudanese Army as a general. You continue to bring great honor and distinction to the SPLM/A in Opposition in your current role as Major General Chief of Staff. Given your excellent relationship with the grassroots community, I have no doubt that you will have a fruitful relationship with all the generals and will inspire our troops on all fronts.
As one of your family members, I am so proud of you. The SPLM/A, under the leadership of Dr. Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon, has made an excellent choice based on your expertise, experience, and talent. The leadership of the SPLM in Opposition commends you for the brave and loyal commitment that you made during December 2013 to protect the survivors of the Juba Nuer massacre. I urge you also to use your leadership as an opportunity to strengthen the freedom fighters’ ability to resist the mounting threat by the Juba-led tribal government and put more pressure to end impunity for human rights abuses and bring a lasting democracy that the whole nation has been yearning for.
Certainly, you have earned the trust of the people by your willingness to volunteer your time and effort to this endeavor. You are also commended for expressing your wish to decertify the corrupt government in Juba. This is another key reason that you have been selected for this post. We trust that you will continue to work for improved military training and competitiveness in liberating the people of South Sudan and who have been behind closed doors in Juba as well as the entire country. I want you to be aware that you have our full support. We wish you all the best as you represent us.
Again, congratulations on your appointment and wish you great success in your new duties. I have the pleasure and privilege to congratulate you on your new assignment and wish for you a successful mission. I am confident that your influence both as a grassroots leader and military general will continue to encourage our proud tradition of involvement in worthwhile political causes.
At this time, the entire nation of South Sudan is supporting you to bring to them a true and lasting democracy and the rule of law that is for the welfare of the people.
I would also like to take this opportunity to show my deep appreciation to our C. in C. Dr. Riek Machar Teny for his exemplary dedication, professionalism, and leadership as the future president of South Sudan. He made an excellent decision in entrusting you with the responsibility to lead the military wing of the SPLM in Opposition (SPLA).
In closing, on behalf of the Dak community throughout the United States, I would like to congratulate and thank both General Simon Gatwech Dual and the chairman, Dr. Riek Machar Teny.
Respectfully,