South Sudan Opposition Names New SPLA-IO Spokesperson
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO) has appointed Lt. Gen. Alfred Futuyo Karaba as spokesperson of its military wing, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO). The decision comes as South Sudan faces heightened political and security tensions.
Oyet Nathaniel Pierino Confirms Appointment Letter
The appointment was confirmed through an official letter signed on Wednesday by Oyet Nathaniel Pierino, Acting Chairman and Commander-in-Chief of the SPLM-IO. Oyet is also a former First Deputy Speaker of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly.
In the document, Oyet said the decision followed the SPLM-IO Constitution of 2015 and resolutions from the movement’s national conferences held in 2014, 2016, and 2020.
SPLM-IO Leadership Notified, Including Riek Machar
Oyet described the move as falling within his constitutional authority and part of wider organizational arrangements. Copies of the letter were circulated to senior SPLM-IO officials, including Dr. Riek Machar Teny-Dhurgon, the party leader and South Sudan’s First Vice President.
Futuyo Replaces Lam Paul Gabriel in Public Role
Lt. Gen. Futuyo replaces Col. Lam Paul Gabriel, who has served for years as the public voice of the SPLA-IO. As spokesperson, Futuyo is expected to communicate the movement’s political and military positions, issue official statements, and engage with national and international media.
Futuyo’s Profile and Western Equatoria Governorship
Futuyo is presented within the SPLM-IO as both a military and political figure. He previously served as Governor of Western Equatoria State until President Salva Kiir removed him in February 2025, alongside then-Minister of Health Yolanda Awel Deng.
The dismissals followed political disagreements and administrative changes linked to implementing the national peace agreement within the transitional government.
SPLA-IO Communication Shift as Relations Deteriorate
After leaving the governorship, Futuyo remained active in SPLM-IO leadership circles. His appointment returns him to a central communication role at a moment the text describes as a breakdown in relations between government and opposition forces.