By Yiep Joseph
Federal Democratic Party (FDP) has expelled Secretary General (SG) Changkuoth Bichiok over alleged violations of party protocols and misconduct.
According to a statement signed by the party Chairperson Gabriel Changson Chang, the decision to expel the secretary general was reached in a leadership meeting.
Bichiok is also a member of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) and the former chairperson of the Finance Committee.
In his response to the alleged expulsion by the party leadership, Changkuoth Bichiok expressed that it was a personal decision by the party chairman, hence not effective.
He added that the letter by the FDP Chairman Gabriel Changson Chang was not procedural in nature, adding that it has not cited any of the parts of the party constitution.
“The statement did not refer to any specific article in the party constitution that Hon. Changkuoth is accused of violating nor to any meeting held on any level of the party that discussed the so-called violations; it is therefore a personal decision that no party that respect itself can tolerate,” Changkuoth said.
He accused the FDP chairperson of being a dictator who takes decisions upon himself without proper party procedures.
Meanwhile, Wazir Michael Liah, an FDP spokesperson, confirmed the decision in a statement extended to the media, citing that it was the last option for the party.
The party, however, charged Bichiok for violations of FDP protocols, insubordination, gross misconduct, and behaviour that has jeopardized party unity and reputation.
“The Federal Democratic Party (FDP) hereby announces the immediate expulsion of Hon. Changkuoth Bichiok, effective November 3, 2024. This action follows repeated and severe violations of FDP protocols, including insubordination, gross misconduct, and behaviour that has jeopardized party unity and the FDP’s reputation.” The statement partly read.
“Hon. Changkuoth’s expulsion comes after a thorough review of his actions, which have consistently breached FDP principles and failed the responsibilities entrusted to him,” it added.
According to the FDP, the specific grounds for his expulsion include insubordination and defiance of party leadership and the chairperson in particular.
“Hon. Changkuoth consistently disregarded directives and authority from the FDP Chairperson and National Leadership Council. Despite numerous warnings, he continued to undermine leadership decisions, obstructing party cohesion and growth,” the statement partly read.
FDP’s spokesperson claimed that the SG was encouraging disunity among the members, an act that is against the party policies.
“Fomenting Divisions within the Party: He (Changkuoth) actively created discord among party members, fostering divisions that weakened the FDP’s solidarity. These actions threatened the FDP’s mission to work collaboratively for a stronger South Sudan,” he added.
The party, however, claimed to have discharged Changkuoth of his assigned role, including his position in the parliament.
“As of today, Hon. Changkuoth Bichiok is no longer a member of the Federal Democratic Party. He is fully stripped of all FDP privileges, positions, and authorities, including his role in the National Parliament. The public and all associated entities are advised not to engage with Hon. Changkuoth regarding FDP matters, as he no longer holds any authority to represent the party in any capacity,” the statement read.