By Emmanuel Mandella
The Chairperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) in Western Equatoria State and Governor, Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, has issued a strong warning to party members against tribalism, her-worship, and the spread of rumours, calling for unity, transparency, and collective responsibility within the ruling party.
He made the remarks last week during a meeting with members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) at the party secretariat in Yambio, where he urged members to work together to rebuild trust and strengthen the party’s structures.
Addressing the meeting, Governor Rimbasa stressed that the SPLM was founded as a broad and inclusive political movement that represents all communities, warning that the rise of tribal loyalties and personality politics threatens the unity and credibility of the party.
“If you are a true member of the SPLM, you must rise above tribalism; leadership must be accessible to all, based on merit and commitment, not personal connections. The SPLM will recognize and promote those who contribute transparently,” Rimbasa said.
While calling for unity and internal reform, Governor Rimbasa emphasized that internal unity and openness are critical for the party to effectively serve the people of Western Equatoria and the country at large.
He noted that the SPLM leadership in the state is working to rebuild confidence among members and supporters by encouraging accountability, fairness, and equal opportunities for participation within the party.
According to the governor, political organizations must remain grounded in the values of transparency and dialogue if they are to maintain public trust.
He cautioned members against engaging in gossip and secretive discussions that could undermine the party’s cohesion and credibility.
“Speak openly about the SPLM. The party will recognize and promote those who engage transparently; secrecy and whispering in party matters will not be tolerated,” he said.
During his remarks, Governor Rimbasa also invited members who feel marginalized or have disagreements within the party to pursue peaceful dialogue and reconciliation.
He said the SPLM leadership in Western Equatoria is committed to fostering an environment where grievances can be addressed constructively to strengthen unity.
“The SPLM in Western Equatoria has opened its doors to everyone, those with grievances, past mistakes, or misunderstandings,” Rimbasa stated. “Come for dialogue. Come for reconciliation. Come for forgiveness. This is the SPLM we are.”
The governor added that reconciliation within the party is essential for ensuring stability and effective governance in the state.
In conclusion, Rimbasa urged party members to prioritize the broader vision and objectives of the SPLM rather than focusing on individuals or personal loyalties.
He said members should demonstrate dignity, discipline, and dedication while working toward the development and prosperity of Western Equatoria.
According to him, the strength of the party lies in its ability to unite people around common goals rather than allowing divisions to weaken its foundation.
“Let us work with dignity and commitment for the betterment of the party and the people of Western Equatoria,” he said.
Political observers say the governor’s remarks come at a time when political parties across South Sudan are facing increasing pressure to demonstrate unity and accountability as the country prepares for key political processes in the coming years.
They note that promoting internal cohesion and discouraging tribal divisions within political parties is seen as a critical step toward strengthening democratic institutions and maintaining stability in the country.
For Western Equatoria, a state that has previously experienced political and security tensions, the emphasis on unity and dialogue within the ruling party could play a significant role in shaping the political environment and governance going forward.