The Art of Power: Pursuing Liberation and Nation Building

By Reneva Fourie

The book ‘The Art of Power: Pursuing Liberation and Nation Building’, launched at the FES offices on December 2, delves into the intricate power dynamics that influenced South Sudan’s path to sovereignty. Its analysis is particularly relevant to us, as South Africans, as it draws parallels to our own experiences. 

At the heart of this narrative is the deeply personal story of Dr Kumba, a significant figure in the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM). Through her eyes, readers gain a profound understanding of her extraordinary journey from fleeing her war-torn homeland to achieving prominence as a political leader. Her journey resonates with the struggles and triumphs of many, making her story deeply relatable.

Dr Kumba’s narrative is not merely an autobiography; it serves as a critical lens through which we can examine the entrenched inequalities and class and gender struggles that have historically plagued Sudan’s political landscape. The book demonstrates how these social issues profoundly influenced the emergence of South Sudan as a new nation. Her memoir sheds light on the harsh realities of a society where marginalised voices often struggle for recognition against a backdrop of systemic oppression.

Central to Dr Kumba’s story is her steadfast commitment to advocating for meaningful transformation within a global political system that frequently neglects the needs and aspirations of the impoverished. Her remarkable rise within the SPLM, taking on roles such as acting Secretary-General and Speaker of Parliament, showcases her resilience and strength of character in a tumultuous political environment. However, her experiences also reveal the paradox of power, which has the potential to address the grievances of the masses; but can also perpetuate the past legacies of colonial oppression.

A poignant aspect of Dr Kumba’s journey is her relationship with her mentor, Dr John Garang. This connection underscores the complexities of leadership in a conflict-ridden environment. The liberation struggle by the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement and Army against the then Khartoum government transcended mere political rivalry; it epitomised deep-rooted class struggles that have led to immense suffering, including a staggering toll of nearly two million lives lost. Dr Garang’s untimely death resonated beyond the SPLM/A, highlighting the inherent challenges that leaders face in their quest to empower their communities and fight for freedom.

The memoir is organised into several sections, each providing substantial context about Dr Kumba’s family background, her life in exile, and the critical negotiations surrounding the Comprehensive Peace Agreement. This structure personalised her narrative and intricately weaves it into the broader political tapestry of South Sudan’s fight for independence. As she reflects on the establishment of the new nation, Dr Kumba does not shy away from addressing its vulnerabilities. She warns that internal divisions among political factions could easily replicate past power struggles, undermining the ideals that prompted their revolutionary struggle.

In her analysis of unity efforts amid governance challenges, Dr Kumba emphasises the critical importance of responsibly navigating power dynamics. Overall, ‘The Art of Power’ transcends traditional memoirs. It serves as a profound critique of power and the enduring struggle against various forms of oppression — whether rooted in race, class, or gender. In the epilogue, she lays bare more intimate facets of her personality, revealing the personal toll that political ambition can exact in a world rife with exploitation and betrayal. This powerful conclusion reinforces the assertion that achieving true freedom necessitates a comprehensive societal overhaul that prioritises the collective good over individual ambitions.

The book is available at bookstores around the country.

* Dr Reneva Fourie is a policy analyst specialising in governance, development and security.

** The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL.