SPLM event invitation by South Sudan embassy in India sparks outrage

JUBA – A public invitation by the South Sudan embassy in India urging citizens residing in the country to join the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) has ignited a firestorm of criticism and calls for accountability.

In a statement released on November 6, 2023, South Sudan’s embassy in New Delhi announced the official establishment of an SPLM chapter in India.

The statement, signed by Chargé d’Affaires Amb. Thomas Kenneth Elisapana, further assured South Sudanese citizens living that country that they could join the ruling party without fear of legal repercussions.

“The Embassy is fully aware and it’s in contact with the party leadership and activities,” the statement asserted.

The embassy’s endorsement of a political party’s activities has ignited a wave of anger among South Sudanese citizens and civil society activists.

Many have expressed their disapproval of the embassy’s actions, questioning its impartiality and adherence to diplomatic norms.

Ter Manyang, the Executive Director of the Centre for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), demanded an apology and resignation from Ambassador Elisapana, emphasizing the ambassador’s primary duty to represent South Sudan as a nation, not a political party.

“The South Sudan Ambassador to India should apologize and resign from his post,” Manyang stated. “Ambassadors do not have political affiliation.”

Journalist Oyiti Sammie criticized the embassy’s actions, stating that the embassy’s resources should not be used to promote partisan interests.

“Those of you who are traveling to India anytime soon, please inform Mr. Ambassador that the letterhead and the stamp belong to the country, not a political party,” Sammie remarked.

Prominent journalist Garang John described the statement as a “diplomatic shame” and questioned the level of professionalism exhibited by the embassy.

“Imagine a diplomatic mission publicly coordinating affairs of one political party! The level of ‘anyhowness’ in this republic is real…” John remarked.

Social media user Akuch Majier Manyiel echoed the sentiments of many, questioning the embassy’s loyalty to the people of South Sudan.

“Does this embassy represent the people of South Sudan or it represents SPLM as a party?” Manyiel asked in a Facebook post.

There was no immediate comment from the South Sudan embassy in India.