SPLM leadership dismisses claims of waning influence, projects 2026 victory

2026-03-12 - 16:57

JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – The Leadership of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) on Thursday expressed confidence in a decisive win for the upcoming December 2026 general elections, dismissing suggestions that the ruling party’s popularity is declining. Speaking at an extended meeting of the SPLM Central Equatoria State (CES) branch in Juba, Thursday, March 12, Party Secretary General Dr. Akol Paul addressed supporters, framing the event’s high attendance as evidence of the party’s electoral readiness. “This turnout shows victory; it means the SPLM is winning the 2026 elections,” Dr. Akol told the gathering. He specifically addressed critics of the party, adding, “I am not talking about other parties or people who claim that the SPLM will go. The SPLM is here to stay.” The Secretary General’s remarks come as South Sudan prepares for its first post-independence general elections. Dr. Akol used the platform to urge party members to focus on grassroots mobilization to secure a mandate from the electorate. The Governor of Central Equatoria State and state SPLM Chairperson, Emmanuel Adil Anthony, also spoke at the event, affirming the region’s alignment with the national party strategy. “Central Equatoria remains committed and ready to ensure an SPLM victory in 2026,” Governor Adil stated. He called on party members to sustain their current mobilization efforts to reach supporters ahead of the December vote. The meeting served as a strategy session for state officials and party mobilizers to outline a roadmap for the 2026 polls, amidst ongoing national discussions regarding the country’s transition toward a democratic vote.