Security forces in South Sudan have once again intervened to halt a press conference by a disqualified presidential candidate of the South Sudan Football Federation (SSFF), amid growing tensions and allegations of political interference ahead of the federation’s highly anticipated elections.
On Monday, Teng Deng, one of the aspirants disqualified from the SSFF presidential race, was prevented from addressing the media in Juba. This followed a similar incident on Sunday, when Advocate Kamal John Akol, another disqualified contender, was blocked from holding a scheduled press briefing at Notos Hotel.
Both candidates have accused the SSFF Electoral Committee of unfairly removing them from the race through what they described as “unjust and unconvincing” decisions, undermining the integrity of the upcoming elections.
“Today’s press conference has been cancelled. We apologize for any inconvenience it may have caused. A new date and time will be announced soon,” Teng Deng posted on social media following the disruption.
Adv. Kamal John Akol, whose name had initially appeared on the list of qualified candidates, was later disqualified by the Appeal Committee associated with the incumbent SSFF President. His press conference, scheduled for noon on Friday, was abruptly called off after security officers ordered journalists to vacate the venue. No official explanation was given for the security intervention.
Supporters of Adv. Kamal expressed outrage over his disqualification, claiming it was politically motivated and designed to eliminate legitimate challengers from the race.
“I condemn the unlawful removal of Adv. Kamal John Akol from the SSFF presidential race by the current incumbent President’s Appeal Committee,” a supporter told reporters outside the cancelled event.
In a separate development, the SSFF Electoral Committee has disqualified Anna Nyakuet Taker, the only female candidate vying for the position of Second Vice President, sparking further debate about inclusivity and fairness within the federation’s leadership structures.
Nyakuet, a respected figure in South Sudanese football circles, took to social media to express her disappointment, writing:
“The world is rarely fair. Those with the right intentions for genuine development are often denied the chance to lead.”
“Hard luck, but keep your head up. Your future remains bright despite this setback. For now, let’s simply watch from a distance.”
An SSFF official stated that Nyakuet failed to meet the required qualifications for candidacy, though further details were not provided. With her disqualification, the race for Second Vice President is now left to two male candidates—Deng Abdelraham and Venasio Amom.
The SSFF presidential and executive elections are scheduled for 15th August 2025, but the recent disqualifications and suppression of public discourse have raised concerns about transparency, fairness, and the role of security agencies in the electoral process.
Observers warn that continued interference could undermine public trust in the SSFF and hinder efforts to develop football governance in South Sudan.
