SOUTH SUDAN: SPLM Responds to Nhial Deng’s Exit Claims

By Deborah Akur Chol, South Sudan

The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) has expressed surprise and firmly rejected the assertions made by Nhial Deng Nhial following his announcement of departure from the party on October 15, 2025. Nhial, a long-standing member with extensive experience in both government and party roles, cited failures within the administration as his reason for forming a new political entity, the South Sudan Salvation Movement (SSSM).

In his statement, Nhial accused the SPLM leadership and the government in Juba of abandoning the fundamental principles of the liberation movement and contributing to the ongoing crises in the country.

In response, the SPLM contested these claims, pointing to perceived inconsistencies and raising concerns about Nhial’s motives and timing regarding his departure. They noted that during Nhial’s tenure as Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, the country experienced significant violence and questioned his ability to manage security effectively.

“When communal violence surged during his leadership, what proactive security measures did Hon. Nhial enact? Instead, he was often away, allegedly attending Arsenal football matches in London while the President managed crises directly,” stated Cde. Bol Makueng Yuol, Secretary General for Political Affairs, Mobilization, and Organizations, in remarks made on Wednesday.

Furthermore, the SPLM rebuffed allegations of widespread corruption and mismanagement of oil revenues. “If Hon. Nhial has credible evidence, he should have sponsored a private member’s bill to call relevant ministries fiinance and Planning, Petroleum, Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and Roads and Bridges to account for these accusations transparently,” Makueng asserted.

In addressing claims that the SPLM and the SPLM-IO are intentionally obstructing the implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) to postpone elections, the SPLM leadership firmly rejected this notion. “We insist this is untrue. The SPLM Chairman and the leadership do not shy away from electoral competition. We are thoroughly preparing for the 2024 elections, as evidenced by regional endorsements and the SPLM Renaissance Mission,” he emphasized.

The SPLM also countered Nhial’s view that the party lost its foundational vision after the death of Dr. John Garang, reiterating their commitment under the current leadership. “Since Dr. Garang’s passing in July 2005, Comrade Salva Kiir has consistently advanced the vision and mission of our struggle. His steadfastness has been crucial in securing South Sudan’s independence despite ongoing challenges,” he added.

Addressing the issue of veterans’ neglect, the SPLM pointed out Nhial’s previous inaction while in office. “During his time in power, he and his colleagues failed to advocate for veterans to take on leadership roles. As Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, what tangible strategies did Hon. Nhial implement to enhance veterans’ welfare? His current calls for action regarding veterans’ neglect appear insincere,” he noted.

The party called on Nhial to guide his new political venture with responsibility. “The SPLM remains dedicated to unity, peace, and development in South Sudan. We urge all members, veterans, and citizens to reject division and work collaboratively for national progress,” the Secretary General emphasized.

“Additionally, we encourage Hon. Nhial to ensure his new party operates on democratic principles and to refrain from fostering any actions that might incite violence within the South Sudanese community.”