Machar directs SPLM-IO to build ‘strong party’ ahead of elections

JUBA – South Sudan’s main armed opposition leader and the country’s First Vice-President Dr. Riek Machar has directed the SPLM-IO national and local leaders to build a strong party in preparation for anticipated elections.

Addressing the 4th SPLM-IO National Liberation Council on Thursday at Freedom Hall in Juba, Machar urged to start preparation and mobilisation for the 2023 vote and face any eventuality for an early election.

“To be a strong party, you need to be organized. Therefore, for us to be organized we must start preparing and focusing on how to build a strong party in the country, that means, starting right from the grass-root level,” said Machar.

He appealed to party members to work together and heed the call of unity. Also, he told his members to start preparing for the recruitment of new members into the party.

Nonetheless, Machar expressed doubts on whether the elections would be held on time, citing a lack of implementation issues.

“The security arrangements and the permanent constitution; these two are key for the elections to happen in the country, because without implementing those fully, the transition may not be completed,” he said.

The one-day meeting was attended by members of Political Bureau (PB), members of National Liberation Council (NLC), and members of the National Legislature, States and Administrative Areas leadership comprising Chairpersons, Deputy Chairpersons, and Secretaries. Also in attendance were members of Security Mechanisms.