South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
Members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in opposition (SPLM-IO) on Thursday crossed over to the SPLM party led by President Salva Kiir in Western Equatoria State, hitting blows on the leading opposition.
Among the notable defectors were Nzara County Commissioner, Lino Fataki, Deputy Commissioner for Western Equatoria State Revenue Authority Torosa Elias, and John Singira, Mayor of Yambio municipality.
Speaking at a media briefing held at the SPLM party secretariat, Acting State Governor Badagbu welcomed the former SPLM-IO officials with open arms.
“This move is a demonstration of our party’s ability to unify and reconcile. It reflects the growing confidence in the SPLM’s commitment to peace, stability, and inclusive governance,” Badagbu said, adding that their return would bolster the revitalization efforts of the SPLM party across the state.
For his part, Fataki, formerly the former Chairperson of SPLM-IO in Nzara County expressed deep appreciation for the reception.
“I am grateful to the SPLM leadership for this welcome. My decision to rejoin the party stems from a deep desire to contribute meaningfully to lasting peace and unity in our communities,” he stated.
John Singira, who previously served as SPLM-IO chairperson for Yambio County commended the SPLM for allowing us to return.
“I will do my part to foster development and cooperation in Yambio,” said Singira.
Echoing similar sentiments, Torosa Elias said the vision and leadership within the SPLM party have given him hope.
“I am confident in their ability to steer Western Equatoria towards prosperity and stability, and I am proud to be part of that journey,” said Elias.
Political analysts believe the development could encourage further defections within the opposition in the coming weeks as momentum builds toward national unity and reconciliation.
