Juba, South Sudan — Veteran politician Nhial Deng Nhial, a senior member of South Sudan’s ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), announced on Wednesday that he is suspending his membership in the party and forming a new political group aimed at reclaiming the SPLM’s founding ideals.
In an 18-page declaration shared with Radio Tamazuj, Nhial accused President Salva Kiir’s administration of betraying the principles of liberation through corruption, insecurity, and an ongoing failure to hold democratic elections.
Nhial unveiled his new platform, the South Sudan Salvation Movement (SSSM), describing it as a “temporary vehicle” to push for internal reforms within the SPLM rather than a full political breakaway.
“The SSSM is not an end in itself,” Nhial said. “It is conceived as a mechanism to steer fundamental reforms within the SPLM and bring about its total renaissance.”
The SSSM will reportedly operate under the United People’s Alliance (UPA) — an opposition coalition led by former SPLM Secretary-General Pagan Amum — and collaborate with other groups to pressure the transitional government for change.
Nhial’s move marks one of the most significant defections from the SPLM’s upper leadership since South Sudan gained independence in 2011. Political analysts say his departure could intensify divisions within the ruling party amid growing uncertainty over the delayed elections.
The politician accused the current government of being “trapped in a dilemma,” unable to conduct free and fair polls for fear of losing power. He called on citizens to mobilize for the drafting of a new permanent constitution and the organization of genuine multiparty elections before the end of 2026.
Nhial’s defection comes as the Kenya-led Tumaini Initiative — aimed at reviving peace negotiations between the government and opposition groups — remains suspended following disputes in early 2025.
A long-time ally turned critic, Nhial acknowledged that his decision may raise questions given his years in high-level government positions, including as Foreign Minister, Defence Minister, and Presidential Affairs Minister.
“I give you my solemn pledge that not only will I speak out, but I will also act to bring about the desired change,” he declared.
Background on Nhial Deng Nhial
Born in 1952 in Tonj, Warrap State, Nhial is the son of the late William Deng Nhial, a prominent southern politician assassinated in 1968. He joined the SPLM in 1983, serving in various administrative and diplomatic capacities during the liberation struggle.
He later played a key role in negotiations leading to the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) and the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement (R-ARCSS). Nhial has also held several cabinet posts, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Defence, and Minister of Presidential Affairs.
His latest move could reshape the political balance in Juba as South Sudan heads into a critical transition period before its long-delayed elections.
Leave a Reply