Parliamentary Realignment in Juba
South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislature approved George Mabior Mayom as acting chief whip for the SPLM-IO on Thursday, replacing Farouk Gatkuoth Kam. The move occurred during a business committee meeting chaired by newly appointed First Deputy Speaker Ambrose Lomin Pitia.
Members set the agenda for the next session, which is expected to debate budget allocations and security legislation linked to the revitalised peace agreement. Observers described the atmosphere as business-like, with neither applause nor dissent voiced in the chamber.
Profile of George Mabior Mayom
Mayom belongs to the SPLM-IO breakaway group led by Peacebuilding Minister Stephen Par Kuol, which declared cooperation with the Kiir administration in April. Colleagues portray him as a pragmatic organiser who favours speedy legislative action over rhetorical disputes.
A former youth activist in Warrap State, he entered parliament on the SPLM-IO ticket in 2021 and quickly gained a reputation for rigorous committee attendance records, according to staff notes reviewed by this magazine.
Implications for the 2018 Peace Deal
By endorsing Kuol’s wing, parliament signals fresh momentum for clauses on army unification and economic reforms contained in the 2018 accord. Analysts argue that a cooperative chief whip can accelerate bill scheduling and reduce procedural deadlocks.
‘We are focused on delivery, not division,’ Mayom told reporters outside the chamber, stressing that his priorities include civil service salaries and transitional justice mechanisms.
Reaction from Rival SPLM-IO Bloc
Nathaniel Oyet Perino, still recognised by the Machar-aligned faction, dismissed the appointment from exile, calling it ‘procedurally flawed’. His statement urged regional mediators to intervene, yet stopped short of announcing parliamentary boycotts.
The presidency did not issue an immediate response. However, security sources indicated that dialogue channels with Machar’s representatives remain open despite his suspension and the recent arrests of senior allies.
Next Steps in Parliament
House leaders are expected to table the budget bill within weeks, providing Mayom his first test in counting votes across fractious benches. Diplomatic observers will watch whether the renewed parliamentary chemistry translates into on-the-ground progress for citizens awaiting peace dividends.