By Lodu William Odiya
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) has distanced itself from failure, as claimed by Nhial Deng Nhial.
Deng freezes his membership from SPLM and subsequently forms his own party, the South Sudan Salvation Movement (SSSM).
During defection, Nhial issued an 18-page statement blaming the SPLM for failing the country.
He also claimed that the party has lost its vision, something later refuted by the SPLM officials.
In response to Nhial’s claims, Bol Makueng Yuol, Secretary for Political Affairs, Mobilization, and Organization for the SPLM, rubbishes the alleged failures.
Makueng refuted the corruption in the procurement of the 500 tractors as claimed by Nhail.
“The failure to effectively implement this project at the state level is not attributed to the SPLM chairman but to the beneficiaries’ inability to manage the initiative,” he said.
According to the SPLM party, Nhial served in several ministries, including the Ministry of Defense and Veteran Affairs, where he could not resolve some of the challenges.
On allegations that the SPLM and SPLM-IO are deliberately delaying the implementation of the peace agreement and fears of election, the SPLM underscored they were ready for the electoral competition.
“Neither the SPLM Chairman nor the leadership fears electoral competition. The SPLM has prepared thoroughly for the 2024 elections, as witnessed by regional endorsements and the SPLM Renaissance Mission,” he noted.
Furthermore, Makueng defied Nhial’s declaration that the party lost its original vision following the death of Dr. John Garang, highlighting continued commitment under current SPLM leadership.
“Following Dr. Garang’s sad passing in July 2005, Comrade Salva Kiir steadfastly carried forward the vision and mission of the liberation struggle,” he said.
He emphasized that President Salva Kiir’s unwavering commitment to the vision was instrumental in achieving South Sudan’s independence despite ongoing provocations,” he added.
Additionally, the SPLM addressed claims regarding veterans’ neglect, calling out Nhial’s previous inaction while in office.
“When he and his colleagues held power, they never advocated vacating their positions to allow veterans a chance to serve as ministers or in leadership roles,” he stated.
“As Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, what concrete strategies did Hon. Nhial design and implement to improve veterans’ welfare?” he asked.
“His current mobilization of veterans on grounds of neglect is disingenuous,” Makueng underlined.
The SPLM party called on the fellow members and citizens to commit to peace and unity among themselves.
“The SPLM remains committed to unity, peace, and development in South Sudan. We urge all members, veterans, and citizens to reject divisions and work together for the country’s progress,” the secretary general stressed.