![South Sudan's then newly removed FVP Dr. Riek Machar Teny speaks during a meeting of the SPLM-IO political bureau in Khartoum, Sudan. [Photo by SUNA]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Riek_Machar.jpg?resize=1024%2C512&ssl=1)
Hours earlier, the SPLM-IO-appointed governor of Upper Nile State, James Odhok Oyay, had suspended Alberto following complaints from local communities about alleged misconduct and failed leadership.
In his suspension order, Oyay cited Article 99(2) of the Transitional Constitution of Upper Nile State 2011 and Republican Decree No. 1/11/2023 dated January 26, 2023, in which he was appointed by President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
“In the exercise of the power conferred upon me under Article 99(2) of the Transitional Constitution of Upper Nile State 2011 and in reference to Republican Decree No. 1/11/2023 dated January 26, 2023, I, H.E. James Odhok Oyay, Governor of Upper Nile State, do hereby issue Gubernatorial Order No. 38/2024 for the suspension of Hon. Peter Alberto Maben, Commissioner of Maban County, Upper Nile State,” the order read in part.
Speaking to Sudans Post this evening, Alberto confirmed that he had defected to President Salva Kiir’s ruling SPLM faction due to a lack of central leadership and organizational capabilities within the SPLM-IO.
“Yes, what you have seen on social media is correct. I have defected to the SPLM. The SPLM-IO lacks central command and good organizational leadership that can solve problems that arises within the party,” he said.
“I cannot continue to be part of a party that is not moving forward,” he added.
