Economist Peter Biar resigns from SPLM to form new political party

JUBA, AUGUST 10, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – South Sudan activist and economist Dr. Peter Biar Ajak has resigned from the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and said he is consulting with other South Sudanese to form a new political party that he says will “resonate with the spirit of hope.”

In a resignation letter addressed to President Kiir, the leader of the SPLM faction, Biar said that he had come to the decision to resign after “profound reckoning” about the state of the country.

“Our path thus far has been both inspiring and arduous,” he wrote. “From the sacrifices of our forefathers to my own experiences as soldiers and members of the Red Army, we have woven a tapestry of bravery, resilience, and determination.”

“But today, we stand at the precipice of disillusionment,” Biar continued. “The very movement that was meant to be a torchbearer for our nation has been infiltrated by tribalism, regionalism, and opportunism – forces that have eroded the moral fiber of our society.”

Biar said that he could no longer be a part of a movement that had strayed so far from its founding ideals.

“As a witness to this transformation, I cannot but acknowledge the degradation of our values, the erosion of our unity, and the muddying of our aspirations,” he wrote. “The SPLM, a symbol of hope and progress, has been wrested away from the hands of those who cherished its noble vision.”

Biar said that he is working with other South Sudanese to “establish a party with a platform that resonates with the spirit of hope, progress, and prosperity that once coursed through our veins.”

He told Sudans Post that the new party will be committed to “building a better future for all South Sudanese, regardless of their tribe, region, or religion.”

Although Biar has been regarded as an opposing voice to the government, his resignation is a significant blow to the SPLM, which has been the ruling party in South Sudan since its independence in 2011.

The party has been plagued by corruption and infighting in recent years, and Biar’s departure is likely to further weaken its position.

The formation of a new political party by Biar is also a sign of growing dissatisfaction with the SPLM among South Sudanese.

Biar’s resignation from the SPLM also comes amid preparations for democratic elections in 2024. If he decides to run for president, the young leader will be a big challenge to Kiir as majority of South Sudanese have expressed dissatisfaction with the latter’s government performance.