![Magwi SPLM Youth League Chairperson Ochola Bosco addresses a crowd during a welcoming event for Governor Louis Lobong Lojore in Torit, Eastern Equatoria State, on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. [Photo by Sudans Post]](https://i0.wp.com/www.sudanspost.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/WhatsApp-Image-2025-02-19-at-6.21.55-PM.jpeg?resize=950%2C451&quality=89&ssl=1)
The endorsement was announced during a public gathering at Torit Freedom Ground on Wednesday, where hundreds of supporters cheered as Ochola Bosco, the Magwi SPLM youth leader in Magwi, read out the endorsement letter.
In his address, Bosco highlighted Lobong’s leadership qualities and commitment to the party, describing him as the ideal candidate for the position.
“Allow us, the people of Magwi County and the SPLM, to officially endorse you today as the governor of Eastern Equatoria State in the 2026 elections,” Bosco said.
“We, the members of the Magwi County SPLM secretariat, endorse Comrade Louis Lobong Lojore as the SPLM flag bearer and candidate for the governorship of Eastern Equatoria State in the upcoming South Sudan general election in December 2026,” he added.
Bosco praised Lobong’s tenure as governor, noting his efforts in maintaining stability and security in Eastern Equatoria State.
“Comrade Lobong has proven himself as a capable and effective leader. Under his stewardship, the security situation in Eastern Equatoria has remained stable. He has been a steadfast supporter of the SPLM and its agenda, and his strong leadership and commitment to the people make him the ideal candidate for the position,” he added.
In his response, Governor Lobong urged potential competitors not to be concerned about the early endorsement, emphasizing the need for unity and service delivery.
“I am responding to the letter written by the SPLM youth from Magwi, nominating me as the flag bearer for the 2026 elections,” Lobong said.
“I know some people may not be happy with this, but I want to assure them that there is still time, and we don’t know what might happen before then. Right now, we need to unite, defend ourselves, and deliver services to our people. Personal interests should be set aside until the appropriate time,” he added.
Lobong called on the people of Eastern Equatoria to come together for the common good.
“This position of governor is for the people of Eastern Equatoria State. Let us focus on serving the population in dire need,” he added.
The endorsement comes as Lobong returns to Torit, the state capital, following a trip to Juba. The event also served as a welcoming ceremony for the governor and his delegation.
Lobong, who has previously served as governor of both Eastern Equatoria and Kapoeta states, is widely regarded as a stabilizing figure in the region.
