South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
In a significant political shift for Western Equatoria State, Mvolo County Commissioner Hon. Rubben Amal Majok has resigned from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-In Opposition (SPLM-IO) and joined the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement party (SPLM) under President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
His defection is expected to influence local political alignments in the region.
The announcement was made through a formal letter dated August 8, addressed to the SPLM-IO Interim Leadership in Juba. Issued from Yambio, the letter confirmed Hon. Majok’s resignation from his role as SPLM-IO Chairperson in Mvolo County and his decision to join the SPLM, which he referred to as “the mother party of the Republic of South Sudan.”
“I have decided to resign and dedicate myself to joining the mother party of the Republic of South Sudan, the SPLM party under the leadership of H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit,” Hon. Majok stated.
He emphasised that his shift in political affiliation is driven by a renewed commitment to serve his county with unity and purpose under the SPLM banner.
The Acting Governor of Western Equatoria State, H.E. Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa, publicly welcomed the Commissioner’s decision, describing it as a step towards sustainable peace and political consolidation.
“Hon. Rubben’s decision reflects a growing desire for unity and stability in our governance structures. As a state, we welcome his commitment to serve under the SPLM and urge all leaders to prioritise the needs of our citizens above political divisions,” Rimbasa said.
In a heartfelt congratulatory message, Rimbasa praised Majok’s courage and consistency, noting that the Commissioner had long expressed his intention to rejoin the SPLM.
“Commissioner of Mvolo County, you’re welcome. I want to take this very special moment to congratulate you on the strong decision you have made. The SPLM is the party that fought for this country, and your decision today is a testament to your dedication,” he added.
Governor Rimbasa further encouraged Hon. Majok to coordinate closely with SPLM structures in Mvolo County and assured him of full support and training under SPLM programmes.
“As you go back, coordinate well with the SPLM in Mvolo County and bring them together. We will not leave you alone. As the SPLM, we are going to train you well with the programmes of the party,” he affirmed.
The resignation marks a significant realignment in Mvolo County’s political landscape, potentially weakening SPLM-IO’s influence in the region. Political observers suggest this move may signal a broader trend of reconciliation and party consolidation ahead of anticipated national reforms.
As South Sudan continues its journey towards peace and democratic transformation, Hon. Majok’s decision could serve as a catalyst for other leaders seeking to bridge political divides in favour of national unity.
