Speaking after the defection, James Clement Juol, the Rubkona County commissioner, hailed the ruling party, saying it remains the center for hope, peace, and development for the people of South Sudan
By The City Review
At least 700 members of the opposition outfit SPLM-IO defected to the ruling SPLM Party of President Salva Kiir in Bentiu, Unity State.
The decamping members, allied to suspended Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, who hails from Unity State, declared their full support for President Salva Kiir’s SPLM party.
Speaking after the defection, James Clement Juol, the Rubkona County commissioner, hailed the ruling party, saying it remains the center for hope, peace, and development for the people of South Sudan.
“My comrades and I declared to join the mighty SPLM under Unity State Governor Comrade Riek Bim Top and the Chairman, Gen. Comrade Salva Kiir Mayardit,” he stated. “Our defection came after we decided to join the SPLM Party. We have no problem with SPLM-IO, but we just decided to join the SPLM in government (IG).”
Tor Tungwar, the Deputy Governor of Unity State and chairperson of SPLM-IO in the state, confirmed the defections to the media.
“We are aware of the decision that was made by some SPLM-IO members led by the commissioner of Rubkona County, who have defected and aligned with SPLM-IG. While we are disappointed to see them leaving, we respect their freedom of association and choice to seek a new political direction,” he said. “However, the departure of a few individuals does not shake the foundation of our movement; in fact, this allows us to unite under a clearer and more dedicated vision.”
The Deputy Governor said while some of their members may prioritize personal ambitions over party loyalty, the vast majority remain committed to the party’s principles.
“We are already seeing renewed energy and support from our grassroots, and we are confident in our path forward,” he concluded. “We thank them for their service to our party, SPLM-IO, and we wish them well in their future endeavors.”