The newly appointed First Deputy Chairperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel was officially sworn into office today at the SPLM House in Juba.
He took oath alongside Mary Apai and Simon Kun Puoch who was appointed to the roles of second and third deputies to the Chairman.
During his inaugural address, Dr. Bol Mel emphasizing on unity, peace, and institutional reform.
He firmly rejected the presence of armed factions within political structures, stating, “Our party has no armed wing, and we will not accept multiple armies in the country. We will not allow political parties to have militias.”
He underscored the party’s commitment to democratic principles, insisting that the long-delayed general elections must take place in 2026 without further postponement.
Dr. Bol Mel positioned the SPLM as the only political force capable of delivering peace and stability in South Sudan.
“I accepted this position to be a servant of the party,” he said, pledging to build effective leadership from the national level down to the states.
He assured party members of his dedication to upholding the SPLM’s legacy and protecting its leadership.
Among his top priorities, he outlined plans to expand party membership both domestically and within the diaspora, develop programs to strengthen political participation, and safeguard the rights of civil servants, including ensuring pension payments for eligible retirees.
“I may be new to this position, but I am not new to the struggle,” Dr. Bol Mel remarked. “All party members must assume responsibility for us to prevail.”
In a strong conclusion, he stressed the importance of unity and national security, declaring, “We cannot be equal in anything related to the security and stability of our country.”
The ceremony marked a significant moment in the party’s efforts to consolidate leadership and prepare for the upcoming electoral period
, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel was officially sworn into office today at the SPLM House in Juba. ){kind=link}