By Emmanuel Mandela

Western Equatoria State Deputy Governor Daniel Badagbu who doubles as the state Chairperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), called on party members to uphold unity and loyalty.

Speaking during his reception on Thursday organized by the party members, Badagbu highlighted the importance of setting aside personal allegiance when engaging in party activities.

“If you are coming to my office, leave your group outside. Come to me as a loyal cadre of the SPLM,” he stated.

Badagbu who is also a member of the Royal family of the Azande Kingdom noted the historical significance of the SPLM and the sacrifices made by its members during South Sudan’s struggle for independence.

“We cannot continue to chant the name of the party that people died for without restoring its integrity,” he declared.

He reminded the cadres that the party’s foundation was built not only for the liberty of its members but for the broader national good.

Badagbu previously served as the first Mayor of Yambio Municipality and Governor of the defunct Gbudue State.

 “The aim of any political party is to capture power, remain in, and maintain both its name and its vision,” he told the gathering.

Meanwhile, at the reception ceremony, Badagbu welcomed a group of defectors from the opposition, SPLM-IO.

Among those who defected from the SPLM-IO include, Mr. John Bashir, the former Secretary of SPLM-IO in Mundri East County.

The move was seen as a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape as party allegiances continued to shift, reflecting both the opportunities and profound challenges tied to the 2018 peace agreement.

Speaking at the event organized by the State SPLM secretariat rally, Mr. Bashir expressed his commitment to his new party SPLM.

“From now onwards, I am a member of SPLM, as SPLM is our home and foundation.”

His decision along with the other defectors was met with warmth by Deputy Governor Badagbu, who welcomed them with love and peace.

However, the shift in political allegiances has exposed persistent challenges faced by the parties signatories to the 2018 peace agreement.

The frequent movement of members between parties undermines trust and continuity in leadership, complicating efforts to implement lasting solutions in conflict-prone areas.

Mid-October, Bagdabu paid a courtesy visit to the Vice President and Chair of the Economic Cluster Services Dr. James Wani Igga, in what observers saw as a move to strengthen political ties and seek high-level support as he embarks on his new role in Western Equatoria.

During the meeting, Badagbu expressed his desire to engage with the party leadership and align his efforts with the government’s broader objectives for peace and development in the state.

In his remarks, Dr. Igga congratulated the deputy governor on his new appointment and praised his loyalty to the party. “Your dedication to the party and your readiness to take on this assignment at the state level is commendable,” said Igga. “The top leadership is fully behind you, and we will work together to ensure peace, unity, and harmony in Western Equatoria.”