South Sudan has seen more war than peace since independence in July 2011. "South Sudanese should not lose hope because South Sudan will be okay one day," he added. JUBA - The streets of South Sudan's capital were charged with tension on Saturday, the nation's fifth independence anniversary, after an outbreak of heavy fighting on the eve left at least 150 soldiers dead. "The number of casualties is over 150 killed," said Roman Nyarji, a spokesman for rebel leader turned Vice President Riek Machar, adding the death toll of soldiers on both sides may rise further. Teacher Peter Mawa, 40, said he has "mixed feelings" of pride over independence and sadness at the ongoing violence.

Source: Bangkok Post July 09, 2016 16:41 UTC