Officials and members of the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) on Thursday marked South Sudan’s Martyrs’ Day in Torit, paying tribute to those who died during the country’s liberation struggle while urging citizens to preserve peace and national unity. Martyrs’ Day is observed annually on July 30 to honour those who died during South Sudan’s decades-long struggle for independence. Speaking at the event, Torit Municipal Council Mayor and caretaker commissioner of Torit County Eddy William Ponsiano urged South Sudanese to honour the country’s fallen heroes by protecting the peace for which they fought. He called on citizens to reject violence, hatred and divisions, saying lasting peace depended on unity across political and ethnic lines. Akileo called on communities to promote peace, reconciliation and national unity while supporting development through agriculture and education.