Former SPLM Chairman Kennedy Gaaniko urges WES leaders to reject violence during Party Congress
By Emmanuel Mandella
Dr. Kennedy Gaaniko Baime, former SPLM Chairman and Deputy Governor in Western Equatoria State. [Photo: Courtesy]
Former SPLM Chairman in Western Equatoria State, Dr. Kennedy Gaaniko Baime, has urged party members, delegates and supporters to maintain peace and reject violence during the ongoing congress period, warning that political disagreements should not turn into hostility or division.
In a message addressed to citizens, delegates, supporters and well-wishers, Dr. Baime called for calm both online and offline, urging participants to use dialogue and respectful engagement as the party conducts its internal political activities.
He said the congress should serve as an opportunity for unity rather than division, adding that differences of opinion must be addressed through peaceful discussion instead of insults, threats or incitement.
“Let us keep this congress peaceful. No violence online, no violence offline. We can disagree without hating each other. We can compete without destroying each other,” Dr. Baime said.
He also cautioned social media users against spreading hate speech, tribal insults and misinformation, saying irresponsible online communication could increase tensions among communities and political supporters.
Dr. Baime encouraged social media users to share verified information and use their platforms to promote peaceful coexistence, particularly during a period of political competition within the SPLM.
He said public communication carries responsibility, warning that messages circulated online can influence relations among citizens and supporters.
The former party chairman further called on political leaders, youth, women and elders to take an active role in promoting peace and protecting the dignity of Western Equatoria State during and after the congress.
His appeal comes as the SPLM conducts internal congresses and preparations for party primaries ahead of the December 22, 2026 general elections. The process is expected to involve competition among party members seeking leadership positions and nominations to represent the party in the elections.
Dr. Baime previously served as Chairman of the SPLM in Western Equatoria. According to the statement circulated by his supporters, he maintained the party’s presence in the state during a difficult political period when Western Equatoria was assigned to the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO).
His latest message focuses on peaceful political participation, responsible communication and respect among competing party members as the internal process continues.
The appeal adds to calls for political actors and their supporters to prevent personal attacks and inflammatory messages from undermining relations within the party and the wider community.