The government of Unity State in South Sudan has dismissed claims that Caretaker Governor Dr. Joseph Manytuil Wejang plans to defy presidential directives or hinder the SPLM primary elections. This response comes after Gen. David Yau Yau, leader of the SPLM High-Level Electoral Committee, left Bentiu for Juba without completing the primaries. Yau Yau spent nearly two weeks organizing party congresses to select candidates for governor and parliament.
According to sources in Bentiu, tensions arose due to reports that Manytuil intended to seek the SPLM nomination for governor. Additionally, there were claims that caretaker county commissioners had been instructed to contest for SPLM county chairperson positions. Some activists argued that these reported plans contravened a presidential order prohibiting caretaker officials from participating in the elections.
Caretaker Minister of Information and Communications Nyakenya Johannes Keah issued a statement on October 28, 2026, rejecting allegations of defiance, intimidation, and obstruction of the electoral process as unverified. Keah emphasized that the party's electoral process in Unity State had proceeded in an orderly manner, with multiple aspirants participating. The state government urged those with complaints to utilize official government and party channels to address their concerns.
Despite the government's assurances, uncertainty persists regarding the resumption of the primaries following Yau Yau's departure for Juba. The SPLM Secretary-General, Akol Paul, has yet to respond to inquiries about the status of the primaries in Unity State. The departure of Yau Yau has raised concerns about the potential impact on the electoral process in the state.
The situation in Unity State highlights the challenges faced by the SPLM in ensuring a smooth electoral process. The party's primary elections are crucial in determining the candidates who will represent the party in the upcoming general elections. Any disruptions or irregularities in the process could have far-reaching consequences for the party and the state.
The allegations of obstruction and defiance against the caretaker governor and other officials have added to the tensions in the state. The government's denial of these claims notwithstanding, the incident has underscored the need for transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The SPLM must address the concerns of its members and ensure that the primaries are conducted in a fair and orderly manner.
Key points
- The government of Unity State has denied allegations of obstructing the SPLM primary elections.
- Tensions arose due to reports that the caretaker governor planned to seek the SPLM nomination for governor.
- Uncertainty remains over when the primaries will resume following the departure of Gen. David Yau Yau.
