South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"

By Jenifer James
The newly elected Chairperson of the United Sudan African Party (USAP), Joseph Ojukwu Ikarai has promised to ensure 35 percent women representation within the party.
Ikarai emphasized the party’s commitment to inclusivity and service on Friday, after he was elected at the extra-ordinary convention of the party in Juba.
“Let me assure you that with this executive body, we will go beyond the 35% representation of women as stipulated in the peace agreement,” he said.
Ikarai reminded the audience of his long-standing dedication to the party.
“I am one of the people behind the formation of this party. We don’t need to carry the party in a briefcase; it must be seen and felt physically,” he said, adding that the party was neglected immediately after the independence of South Sudan.
He said that his leadership will revive the lost glory of the opposition party.
“We don’t want leadership for its own sake; we want to serve the people of South Sudan through meaningful service delivery,” said Ikarai.
“We will work as a team even when critical decisions arise, I will always consult with others. Our goal is to engage with the 54 parties in the country and find ways to work together,” he added.
For his part, Deputy Chairperson of the party, John Deng Obany, echoed similar sentiments, expressing gratitude to the members who elected the new leadership.
“We are grateful to the party members who have entrusted us with this responsibility. For almost seven years, the party has been inactive. From today onward, USAP will be visible across the country, engaging in various activities, including in universities, as we prepare for elections,” said Obany.
He encouraged party members to begin preparing to contest in the general elections scheduled for December 2026.
“If you want to contest, you need to start now. I am confident that all the leaders here will participate in the upcoming elections,” said Obany.
USAP Secretary General, Malong Chan Deng, assured members of open communication and collaboration, adding that the offices of the new party leadership will always be open to all party members.