SPLM Warns Caretaker Officials Against Interfering in Primaries

The ruling SPLM party in South Sudan has warned its members serving in the caretaker government against interfering in its ongoing congresses and primaries. SPLM Secretary-General Akol Paul Kordit stated that the party had received reports of caretaker government officials attempting to influence internal elections and taking action against fellow members over their voting preferences. He emphasized that officials serving in the caretaker administration must remain neutral and allow party members to choose their leaders freely.

Kordit announced that the party is documenting alleged violations and would hold those responsible accountable once sufficient evidence had been gathered. He stressed that the directive also applies to other political parties, arguing that the caretaker government has a responsibility to provide an enabling environment for all political groups to organise and prepare for the general elections. The secretary-general warned against inflammatory statements and actions that could deepen divisions within the party.

Kordit urged candidates and their supporters to exercise discipline and respect the outcome of the internal elections. He also cautioned active-duty military personnel against participating in party political activities, including the ongoing primaries, unless they had formally left active service and obtained clearance from their respective military units. Some military officers seeking to participate in the internal elections had been referred to their units for clearance.

On electoral preparations, Kordit warned party members against attempts to alter existing electoral constituencies, insisting that the December 22 general elections should be conducted using boundaries based on the 2008 population census. He said attempts by individuals in some counties and states to introduce new administrative arrangements are unacceptable, urging party members to respect existing electoral and administrative structures.

The SPLM has received reports of alleged threats against party candidates in Tambura County, Western Equatoria State. Kordit condemned these threats and called on the government to guarantee the safety of candidates, voters, and members of other political parties. He emphasized the party's commitment to a peaceful electoral process, stating, "We don’t want violence in this process. We don’t want a war in South Sudan. We want peace."

The internal electoral process of the SPLM faces challenges in several parts of the country, raising concerns about the party's ability to complete its candidate selection and organisational exercises ahead of the December elections. In Unity State, the party's national leadership warned caretaker governors and party officials against interfering in the primaries. The process has also been marred by allegations of bias in the Greater Pibor Administrative Area.

Despite the challenges, Kordit expressed confidence that the remaining internal congresses and primaries would be concluded in time for the December 22 elections. Upper Nile State has already completed its process. The party aims to ensure a smooth and fair electoral process, free from interference and intimidation.

Key points

• The SPLM party warns caretaker officials against interfering in its ongoing congresses and primaries.
• The party is documenting alleged violations and will hold those responsible accountable.
• The December 22 general elections will be conducted using boundaries based on the 2008 population census.