![Chairperson of Economic Cluster of TNLA, Changkuoth Bichiok, presenting the budget in its second reading before the assembly on Wednesday 26th July 2023 [Photo by Sudans Post]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/image-2.jpg?resize=1031%2C552&ssl=1)
JUBA – The Federal Democratic Party (FDP) led by higher education minister Gabriel Changson Lew Chang on Monday expelled its Secretary-General, Changkuoth Bichiok, for misconduct and other breaches of party rules.
Wazir Michael Liah, the party’s spokesperson, said the expulsion of Changkuoth came following repeated and severe violations of party’s protocols, including insubordination, gross misconduct, and behavior that has jeopardized party unity and its reputation.
“As of today, Hon. Changkuoth Bichiok is no longer a member of the Federal Democratic Party. He is fully stripped of all FDP privileges, positions, and authorities, including his role in the National Parliament,” Michael told Sudans Post on Monday.
Michael advised the public and all associated entices to desist from engaging with Changkuoth regarding FDP matters, saying he doesn’t hold any authority to represent the party in any capacity.
“Hon. Changkuoth’s expulsion comes after a thorough review of his actions, which have consistently breached FDP principles and failed the responsibilities entrusted to him,” he said.
He added that “Insubordination and Defiance of Party Leadership: Hon. Changkuoth consistently disregarded directives and authority from the FDP Chairperson and National Leadership Council. Despite numerous warnings, he continued to undermine leadership decisions, obstructing party cohesion and growth.”
Changkuoth Bichiock, the expelled party’s spokesman, said his expulsion from the party was a personal decision taken by some individuals.
“Hon. Changkuoth is the Secretary General of the Federal Democratic Party and cannot be expelled from the party except after following elaborate procedures starting with an investigation committee to look into the charges leveled against him,” Changkuoth said.
“Followed by a disciplinary committee if there is a prima facie reason to press with charges and then leadership council as the authority that can take actions on charges against leaders of the party.”
In August 2024, the Federal Democratic Party (FDP), a signatory to the Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan under the South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA) was hit by ownership wrangles.
A group led by the Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology, Gabriel Changson Chang disowned a group led by Gen. Gathoth Gatkuoth who recently declared himself the legitimate leader of the party.
