JUBA—Central Equatoria State governorship candidate Modi John Molla has withdrawn from the race and announced plans to contest a seat in South Sudan’s National Legislative Assembly, representing Terekeka West Constituency No. 12 in the December 22 general elections.
Molla, from the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), announced his decision in a statement seen by Sudans Post on Tuesday. He explained that he chose to support efforts by politicians from his home county of Terekeka to unite behind a single consensus candidate for the governorship rather than pursue his individual ambition.
“Having carefully considered the prevailing political circumstances and the greater interests of our people, I have decided to support my comrades from Terekeka County in their collective efforts to unite, set aside individual ambitions, and agree on one consensus candidate for the position of Governor of Central Equatoria State,” he said.
Molla, who initially declared his intention to run on September 14, reversed his decision less than two months before the scheduled polls.
He noted that his withdrawal was also shaped by a deep sense of gratitude toward supporters who backed former Central Equatoria Governor Major General Clement Wani Konga during the 2010 general elections.
“My decision is deeply personal and, above all, reflects my sense of honour, gratitude, and solidarity towards those who stood firmly with my elder and father, Major General Clement Wani Konga of Reggo Payam, Terekeka County, during the 2010 General Elections,” Molla said.
“Their solidarity, commitment, and unwavering support contributed significantly to his victory. I remain profoundly grateful for their loyalty and the sacrifices they made during that important political period.”
Following the announcement, Molla called on political associates and supporters across Central Equatoria and the diaspora to embrace his decision, urging them to prioritize unity, reconciliation, and collective service over individual political goals.
Molla previously served as Deputy Governor and Minister of Finance in the defunct Terekeka State, as well as Minister of Labour, Public Service, and Human Resource Development in Central Equatoria State.
His withdrawal comes as political competition intensifies for the governorship of Central Equatoria, a strategically important state that hosts South Sudan’s capital and serves as the country’s main centre of government, commerce and international diplomacy.
Approximately six party members sought the position during the nomination period, including former governors Emmanuel Adil Anthony and Gen. Rabi Mujung Emmanuel, alongside Hastin Yokwe Anisio.
The December 22, 2026, general elections are expected to determine national and state leadership positions as South Sudan prepares for its first general elections since independence in 2011.
However, preparations have encountered persistent delays, with voter registration yet to start.
