By Yiep Joseph
The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) has apologized for the political disputes in 2013 that escalated into violent conflict and called on citizens to forgive.
Addressing SPLM members during the opening of a three-day expanded meeting in Central Equatoria, the party’s Secretary-General, Akol Paul Kordit, said the 2013 conflict was driven by a power struggle within the party, which later affected the people of South Sudan.
“I am aware we caused suffering to our people in 2013,” Akol said.
“The 2013 war broke out within the SPLM. It was a power struggle; it had nothing to do with reforms.”
As a member of the SPLM Political Bureau at the time, Akol said he witnessed the internal wrangles that led to the war.
Akol emphasized that the SPLM takes responsibility for the conflict and apologizes to the people of South Sudan.
“It was a power struggle war. As a party, we take responsibility and apologize to this country for the suffering we caused,” he said.
He called for a new chapter, noting that the SPLM remains a historical party for the nation.
“We promise our people that this country is going nowhere, South Sudanese are going nowhere, and the SPLM is going nowhere. Let us open a new chapter and work together for a better South Sudan,” Akol said.
Despite current challenges, he expressed hope that the country could overcome them if the SPLM focuses on peace and stability.
“People fall down and get back up again. Our task today in the SPLM is to restore peace and stability in our country,” he added.
Speaking at the same occasion, Vice President and First Deputy Chairperson of the SPLM, James Wani Igga, urged party members to prioritize service delivery to citizens, noting the sacrifices of those who fought for the country’s liberation.
“For our martyrs to be proud of us, let us handle the affairs of South Sudan properly,” Wani said, reiterating the government’s commitment never to return the country to conflict.
He also noted that ongoing instability has disrupted agricultural activities in some areas, stressing that the SPLM and the government remain committed to ensuring peace and stability across the nation.