JUBA — South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday stated that the ruling party, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), is not affiliated with any single tribe or region but rather represents all South Sudanese people.
“SPLM is not just a political party; it is a movement of sacrifice. The SPLM does not belong to one tribe, one region, or individuals; it belongs to all the people of South Sudan,” Kiir said during the swearing-in of SPLM officials held in Juba on Thursday.
Kiir expressed that a new generation should assume leadership roles in the country.
“The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) is the only political party that accommodates all South Sudanese, regardless of their tribal or regional origin,” Kiir said.
Kiir called on all citizens and communities, including government officials, to embrace agriculture, emphasizing the need to combat the dire hunger situation through local production.
Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, the vice president and newly appointed first deputy chairman of the SPLM, emphasized that the people of South Sudan will succeed if they respect President Salva Kiir Mayardit’s mission, which calls for no return to war.
“As we assert our role as a party, SPLM is the only party that can achieve peace for our people, protect the legacy of our martyrs, fulfill the promises of our independence, and deliver a better life for all South Sudanese,” Mel.
“For our nation to develop to its potential, we cannot compromise on peace, unity, and security. SPLM has no military wing; we have entrusted the SPLM to the people and placed our trust in the South Sudan People’s Defense Force as the only legitimate army,” he said.
On May 20, 2025, President Salva Kiir Mayardit revoked the appointments of his three deputies: James Wani Igga, who served as the first deputy chairman; Daniel Awet Akot, the second deputy chairman; and Kuol Manyang Juuk, the third deputy chairman.
Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel replaced Dr. James Wani Igga, who served briefly as First Deputy Chairman and Secretary General.
Mel was sworn in alongside Mary Apayi Ayiga as the second deputy chairperson and Simon Kun Puoch as the third deputy chairperson, replacing Daniel Awet Akot and Kuol Manyang Juuk, respectively.
