![Mr. Charles Benykok Matuol, the Chairperson-elect of Rumbek Youth Union. [Photo: Courtesy]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/1746340916188.jpg?resize=720%2C514&quality=89&ssl=1)
The Guest of Honour, Ambassador Gen. Eng. Malek Ruben Riak, expressed his delight at the democratic process demonstrated by Rumbek’s youth in electing their leaders.
“This reflects the true spirit of democracy, where you either win or lose with maturity,” he said, commending the youth for voting and accepting the election results gracefully.
Addressing the newly elected leadership, he stated, “You have been entrusted with the mandate of the entire Agar community. This is a significant responsibility that requires humility. There are local issues in your county, Pakam, that need your intervention to foster peace, like other Agar communities.”
Mr Riak congratulated all candidates for accepting the outcome and urged the new leaders to collaborate with relevant ministries, the state government, and NGOs to ensure success. “Embrace peace, fulfil your responsibilities, and work together for progress,” he added.
Mr. Kuol Mathubier Kucdhal, the Chairperson of RUMYU’s Independent Elections Committee, explained that the election process, which began on April 15, 2025, was conducted through delegations.
“RUMYU represents three counties of the Agar sub-clan of the Dinka: Rumbek East, Rumbek Central, and Rumbek North,” he said. “Per the RUMYU constitution, each county delegates 15 youth members, aged 18 to 45, totalling 45 delegates,” he added.
These 45 delegates voted for three candidates contesting the chairmanship: Charles Benykok Matuol, John Maniel Majok, and John Thon Pam.
“Charles Benykok Matuol received 24 votes, securing 53% of the total, while John Thon Pam earned 17 votes (37%), and John Maniel Majok received 4 votes,” Mr. Kucdhal reported. He declared Charles Benykok Matuol the winner and Chairperson-elect, noting that the process was peaceful and successful.
The position of Secretary General was uncontested, with Mr. Deng Mayek declared the winner. “Out of 45 delegates, 44 voted for him, with one abstention, giving him 98% of the required votes,” Mr. Kucdhal said.
The swearing-in of the elected officials is scheduled for one week after the election, as stipulated by the RUMYU constitution.
The Chairperson and Secretary General will form an executive team of 18 members, while 27 of the 45 delegates will elect a Speaker and Deputy Speaker.
“We appreciate the delegates and supporters for ensuring a peaceful and transparent election,” Mr. Kucdhal said.
The election process was overseen by observers, candidate agents, and community elders, ensuring fairness and transparency.
“Each candidate provided an agent, and three observers, as required by the constitution, participated in the vote-counting process alongside the elders,” Mr. Kucdhal explained.
John Thon Pam, an aspirant for the chairmanship who did not win, confirmed the election was free and fair, echoing the sentiment of transparency.
