By Jurugo Emmanuel Ogasto
In political twist, over 400 members of Agwelek Kitgwang Declaration and SPLM-IG cadres switched allegiances to SPLM-IO, in Malakal, Upper Nile state.
SPLM-IO state chairperson, also Upper Nile State governor, James Odhok Oyay, issued a statement to declare the defections.
The statement seen by this outlet, indicates governor Odhok, welcoming the defectors in Malakal town.
Prominent figures among the defector include a former commissioner of Makal County, under the Kitgwang ticket, Yoana Omujwok Ajak and Christino Kudyer Patrick, who was the Head of Information Committee of Kitgwang’s Advance Team to Juba.
Another, Athor Bany, led about 60 SPLM-IG members to the opposition.
Speaking during the reception, governor Odhok cheered the new members to SPLM-IO family and expressed confidence in their ability to contribute to the party’s vision for a united and peaceful South Sudan.
He emphasized that the party’s doors are always open to those who share its values and commitment to the people of this young East African country.
The defectors cited disillusionment with the SPLM-IG leadership, mentioning ongoing political instability, corruption, nepotism, and human rights violations as their reasons for switching sides.
They pledged loyalty to the Dr. Riek Machar Teny political camp and vowed to work for peace, reconciliation, and democracy in South Sudan.
This influx is seen as a significant boost for the SPLM-IO ahead of the upcoming democratic transition in the country.
The party leadership has expressed optimism that the addition of these experienced and dedicated individuals will help to further advance their cause and bring about lasting peace and stability to the war-torn country.
Meanwhile, Puok Both Buluang, the acting press secretary, in the office of the first vice president, Dr. Machar, who is the SPLM-IO chairman, acknowledged receiving the new defectors.
“Yes, it is true that some members have joined the party; we welcome them to the SPLM-IO,” Mr. Puok told this outlet when contacted for a comment yesterday.
“We call upon others to call SPLM-IO,” he added.
He applauded the new members for what he describes as a bold decision they have taken to join the main opposition party.
However, efforts to reach out to the Secretary General of the ruling SPLM party, Peter lam Both for comment on the story proved futile by press time as his known contact went unanswered.