The South Sudanese political arena is heating up as tensions between President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Speaker of the National Assembly Jemma Nunu Kumba come to light. What started as an apparent disagreement has escalated into a full-blown power struggle, with accusations and controversial decisions adding fuel to the fire. While the exact cause of the rift remains unclear, sources suggest a combination of personal grievances, political ambitions, and unilateral actions by the speaker have widened the gap between the two leaders.
A significant point of contention appears to be accusations linking Nunu to the ongoing intercommunal violence in Tombura, which has claimed hundreds of lives since 2021. An anonymous source revealed that Nunu’s alleged involvement in the conflict has put her at odds with the president. “The president has become increasingly wary of her activities, especially after her name was linked to the violence in Western Equatoria,” the source said.
The tension reportedly escalated following the dismissal of Western Equatoria State Deputy Governor Kenneth Gaaniko two months ago and his replacement by Daniel Badagbu. Nunu, described as a lifelong friend of Gaaniko, was deeply angered by the move and allegedly attempted to meet with President Kiir to express her discontent. However, her requests were denied. A close associate of Nunu disclosed, “The president even refused to meet Badagbu with Nunu present, choosing instead to meet him alone. This was a clear message of mistrust.”
Further straining their relationship are Nunu’s recent unilateral decisions as Speaker of the National Assembly, which insiders say have exacerbated the conflict. Without consulting the president, Nunu abruptly ordered a four-month recess for members of parliament (MPs). This unexpected decision, which sidelined crucial legislative activities, angered the presidency and raised questions about Nunu’s motives.
A political observer commented, “The recess caught everyone off guard. It signaled a breakdown in communication and coordination between the executive and the legislature.” The source added that this move reflected Nunu’s growing defiance and her willingness to assert authority without presidential input.
Adding to the tension was Nunu’s cancellation of South Sudan’s participation in the East Africa Inter-Parliamentary Games, an annual event that fosters regional cooperation and dialogue. Nunu refused to allocate funds for the process, effectively barring South Sudanese MPs from attending the important event. “These games are not just about sports; they are a platform for diplomacy and regional integration,” said an anonymous MP. “By refusing to fund our participation, Nunu undermined South Sudan’s standing in the region.”
Political analysts suggest that the conflict is rooted not only in administrative disagreements but also in broader regional and political aspirations. Nunu’s rumored support for the cessation of Zanda land from South Sudan has added a new dimension to the feud.
“Armed groups believed to be loyal to Nunu, known as Anikpigbe, have been accused of waging war against non-Zande tribes along the borders with the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo,” said a regional analyst who requested anonymity. “The goal appears to be the creation of a tri-state Zanda territory that includes parts of South Sudan, CAR, and the DRC.”
While Nunu’s camp has denied these allegations, critics argue that her ambitions threaten to destabilize South Sudan further. A resident of Tombura, who survived the violence, described the devastation caused by the conflict. “If Nunu is behind this, she must be held accountable. The violence has displaced entire communities and left us with no homes,” the resident lamented.
President Kiir has remained largely silent on the matter, but insiders say he has grown increasingly frustrated with Nunu’s actions. A source close to the presidency noted, “The president has always prioritized unity, but Nunu’s recent moves, particularly her unilateral decisions and separatist ambitions, have crossed a line.”
Kiir’s refusal to meet with Nunu or address her grievances has been interpreted by some as a signal of his unwillingness to tolerate further dissent. Political insiders warn that the standoff could deepen divisions within the government and lead to a broader political crisis.
Despite mounting criticism, Nunu appears unfazed. An aide to the speaker dismissed the allegations, describing her as resolute in her vision for a Zanda State. The aide accused President Kiir of failing to manage South Sudan’s affairs effectively. “Nunu believes Kiir’s leadership has failed the people of South Sudan,” the aide said. “She has called on Equatorians to rise against this weak and corrupt regime. If Kiir does not address these grievances, more regions will follow in the footsteps of Zanda.”
Experts warn that the growing rift between Kiir and Nunu could have far-reaching consequences for South Sudan’s fragile unity. A South Sudan political analyst, described the situation as a test of the country’s leadership. “This is not just about two individuals,” the analyst said. “It reflects deeper issues of governance, ethnic divisions, and power struggles. If not addressed, it could lead to further fragmentation.”
The analyst emphasized the need for dialogue and reconciliation to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control. “South Sudan cannot afford another political crisis,” he said. “The focus should be on addressing the needs of the people, not on personal power struggles.”
As the conflict unfolds, calls for regional and international intervention are growing. Civil society groups and analysts have urged organizations such as the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to mediate between Kiir and Nunu.
“The AU and IGAD must step in to prevent this conflict from escalating,” said a religious leader who preferred to remain anonymous. “Our leaders must prioritize the nation’s interests over their personal grievances.”
For now, South Sudan’s future remains uncertain. Whether the two leaders can reconcile their differences and steer the country toward stability remains to be seen. As tensions rise, one thing is clear: the stakes for South Sudan’s unity and stability have never been higher.
Stay tuned for more updates..
