People’s Liberal Party leader Peter Mayen has accepted his appointment as caretaker Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management. In a recent interview with Eye Radio, Mayen stated that he will not contest the December 2026 presidential election. He cited recent family losses and emotional unpreparedness as the reasons for his decision. Mayen had previously announced his intention to contest the presidency but has since changed his stance.
Mayen's decision not to contest the presidential election is primarily linked to his family circumstances. He revealed that he has lost family members, including prominent elders within his family. This has put him in a difficult position to contest for any elective office. Mayen emphasized that his decision would have been the same even if he had not been appointed to the caretaker government.
In justifying his decision, Mayen drew a comparison with U.S. President Joe Biden's situation when he served as vice president under Barack Obama. Mayen noted that personal and family circumstances can affect a decision to seek higher office. He stated that he finds himself in a similar situation, where his family issues have taken precedence over his political aspirations.
Despite ruling out a presidential bid, Mayen confirmed that he has accepted the ministerial appointment and is ready to serve in the caretaker government. His role will involve addressing humanitarian issues and contributing to a smooth transition to the next elected government. Mayen expressed his willingness to take on the responsibilities of caretaker Minister of Humanitarian Affairs.
Mayen's decision has implications for the People’s Liberal Party, which he leads. He clarified that the party's last convention had nominated him as its presidential candidate, and no other candidate has been nominated or approved since then. Mayen emphasized that his decision not to contest the December election does not mean he is abandoning politics.
Mayen indicated that he could seek elective office in the future, stating that he will contest at a different time. He called for South Sudanese politics to focus more on policies than individual politicians. Mayen stressed that South Sudan is bigger than individual names and that the focus should be on the country's development and progress.
South Sudan is scheduled to hold general elections on December 22, 2026, with the next elected government expected to take office in February 2027. Mayen's decision not to contest the presidential election has been seen as a significant development in the country's politics. The country is expected to make significant progress in the coming months, with a focus on humanitarian issues and the transition to a new government.
Key points
- Peter Mayen cites family losses and emotional unpreparedness as reasons for not contesting the December presidential election.
- Mayen accepts caretaker Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management post.
- Mayen rules out contesting the December presidential election but does not abandon politics.
