By Riak Chol

A lawmaker representing Uror South Constituency in the Jonglei State Legislative Assembly has hailed President Salva Kiir for reaching out for peace with the SPLM-IO Kitgwang. 

Wany Bum Makhor described the move as a significant step towards lasting peace and stability in the country.

On February 2, a delegation from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in opposition (SPLM-IO) Kitgwang factions, led by Gen. Simon Gatwech Dual arrived in Juba two days after the signing of the peace agreement in Port Sudan.

Bum emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in ensuring the successful implementation of the agreement. 

He called on all stakeholders, including political leaders, civil society organizations, and the general public, to embrace the spirit of dialogue and reconciliation.

“To fellow South Sudanese who hold contrary views and particularly those sympathizing or politically affiliated with SPLM/A-IO under Dr. Riek Machar, let’s embrace this moment of peace and applaud the President for his sacrificial effort in advancing the unending task of bringing about meaningful peace by extending the hands of peace to Kitgwang group,” Bum stated.

The MP also acknowledged the efforts of the regional bodies, and international partners in facilitating the peace process and expressed gratitude for their continued support.

“It is imperatively significant to maintain and hold peace. We must collectively embrace the painstaking culture of peace and patriotism to the country to rise to the occasion of positive peace.”

He further called on the office of the president to prioritise inclusion of the SPLM-IO Kitgwang faction into the Tumaini peace process in Kenya. 

SPLM Ruweng on Kiir for appointing Dr. Bol Mel

Meanwhile, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement party members in the Ruweng Administrative Area (RAA) have commended the president for appointing Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel as Vice President for Economic Cluster.

“We thank the president of the republic and SPLM Chairman, (President Salva Kiir) for the wise and bold decision he has taken to appoint Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel as Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan and Chairperson of Economic Cluster,” said Paulino Jaw Thon Deng, Secretary of SPLM in the Ruweng Administrative Area.

Jaw encouraged the SPLM party and its supporters to strengthen its foothold and to restore peace and unity in the country.

“In addition to that, with deep and thankful heart, the appointment of our senior comrade Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel as first Deputy SPLM Chairman is a great momentum in the SPLM rejuvenation in readiness for the big win of 2026 general elections,” Jaw said.

On Thursday, President Kiir swore in Dr. Bol Mel as the Vice President for Economic Cluster among other senior government officials.