The attempted coup in Africa’s newest state, the Republic of South Sudan, could be an indicator that the young nation is learning bad manners from her neighbors. Media reports point at disgruntled ethnic communities fighting over control of government.

The republic of South Sudan is a new state emerging from decades of civil war. It is understandable that at its independence, expectations of socio-economic and political wellbeing were high. However, success takes time and comes with effective strategies, hard work and goodwill from local and international actors.

All leaders and citizens of South Sudan must give the existing government support and time to achieve this end. Doing otherwise will negate the gains achieved since independence and scare investments. The existing government on its part must proactively ensure inclusivity; South Sudan is not a preserve of one ethnic community.The government should open up space for dialogue, constructive criticism, be inclusive and avoid falling prey to rent seekers, nepotism and cronyism.