Strategic Gathering in Juba
President Salva Kiir, wearing his SPLM Chairman hat, convened senior cadres in Juba on Friday to “take stock” of the shifting landscape and draft a refreshed road-map for the ruling movement (Eye Radio).
Secretary General Professor Paul Logale Jumi said discussions spanned governance, economic resilience and social welfare, adding, “We are committed to party cohesion and national development.” His statement suggested an emphasis on unity rather than public confrontation.
Defection Tests Party Cohesion
The sessions unfolded days after veteran figure Nhial Deng Nhial exited to create the South Sudan Salvation Movement, accusing SPLM leaders of drifting from Dr John Garang’s founding vision and prolonging power through delayed elections.
Nhial’s call for a “second liberation” resonated online, yet party insiders downplayed the departure, framing it as a clarifying moment that will “separate commitment from opportunism,” according to a Politburo member who requested anonymity.
Election Timeline Under the Microscope
SPLM strategists reportedly revisited electoral timetables, mindful of the 2026 deadline urged by critics. While no date emerged, participants emphasised the need for comprehensive census data, security arrangements and legislative reforms before voters head to the ballot.
Observers note that South Sudan’s fragile peace accord tasks the government with creating favourable conditions for polls; officials insist sequencing these steps is crucial to avoid renewed instability.
Perspectives from Analysts
Political analyst Nyamal Chol believes the meeting signals “serious recalibration” rather than panic. “The leadership must broaden its tent to retain grassroots energy while delivering economic relief,” she said, pointing to inflation and fuel shortages.
Regional diplomats view Kiir’s outreach as a bid to keep the peace process on track and prevent fragmented alliances from derailing progress. For now, the SPLM appears intent on consolidating its base while leaving the door open to dialogue.