Once a united force, the ruling party Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A) now faces an imminent division that could spell trouble for President Salva Kiir’s candidacy in the upcoming 2024 elections. As 12 influential members, known to be close friends, gear up to challenge his leadership, tensions within the party soar, casting a shadow over its future.
The SPLM/A, which played a critical role in South Sudan’s journey to independence, is known for its strong unity and collective vision. However, cracks in the foundation have begun to appear, signaling a significant setback to President Kiir’s political aspirations.
Whispers and rumors of discontent within the party have been circulating for months, but recently the murmurs grew louder. The group of 12 members, who befriended President Kiir during the long struggle against Sudan, now find themselves at odds with his leadership style and policies. Collectively, they possess considerable political clout and support from influential factions within the party, making them a formidable challenge to President Kiir’s control.
The rift between the ruling party and its beloved leader arose from various issues, including accusations of corruption, nepotism, and a lack of economic progress. Many party members argue that President Kiir has focused more on consolidating power than on implementing crucial reforms and enacting policies beneficial to the people.
This division within the SPLM/A sets the stage for an intense power struggle that will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for the nation. As the countdown to the 2024 elections commences, President Kiir’s detractors are rallying their followers and forming coalitions to mount a challenge against his candidacy.
Analysts predict that the internal discontent within the ruling party might be a fundamental turning point in South Sudan’s political landscape. Should the president fail to address the concerns and regain the trust of the dissatisfied members, it could significantly weaken the SPLM/A’s hold on power.
In response to the growing divisions, President Kiir has called for internal dialogue, urging the disgruntled members to air their grievances. However, critics argue that mere words are not enough, demanding concrete actions and demonstrating that change is imminent.
As factions on both sides gear up for the upcoming battle, South Sudanese citizens anxiously watch the unfolding drama, unsure of what lies ahead. For a nation still grappling with the aftermath of a brutal civil war, this internal strife within the ruling party threatens a further setback to the country’s development.
With less than two years until the crucial 2024 elections, the SPLM/A faces a defining moment in its existence.
As President Kiir’s grip on power hangs in the balance, only time will tell whether he can navigate these treacherous waters and regain the support of the party members or whether the looming division within the ruling party will be his ultimate downfall.
