The warning was issued on Thursday by Western Equatoria State Governor and SPLM state chairperson Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa during a meeting with party officials and members at the SPLM Secretariat in Yambio.
Addressing the gathering, Rimbasa urged members to avoid turning political leadership into personal loyalty networks or tribal blocs, saying such practices undermine the broader national character of the party.
“If you are a true member of the SPLM, you must rise above tribalism. The SPLM is not a tribal movement; it is a broad organisation that brings people together,” he said.
The governor stressed that internal divisions fueled by rumour-spreading, secrecy, and factionalism could erode the party’s structures and weaken its ability to serve the public. He called on members to maintain professionalism and dignity in their political engagement.
Rimbasa said the party’s leadership in the state intends to promote transparency and merit-based participation in party activities and leadership roles.
“Leadership must be accessible to everyone based on merit and commitment, not personal relationships. The SPLM will recognise and promote those who contribute transparently and work diligently for the party,” he said.
He also encouraged members who may have grievances or disagreements with the party leadership to address them through dialogue rather than internal disputes that could deepen divisions.
“The SPLM in Western Equatoria has opened its doors to everyone, including those who may have grievances or past misunderstandings. We encourage dialogue, reconciliation, and forgiveness so that we can rebuild trust and move the party forward together,” he added.
Political observers say such calls for unity and internal discipline come at a time when parties across South Sudan are facing growing scrutiny over internal cohesion and their readiness for the country’s anticipated elections scheduled for 2026 under the 2018 peace agreement.
Rimbasa concluded by urging party members to focus on constructive engagement and collective responsibility, saying unity within the party is essential not only for its political future but also for effective service delivery to citizens in Western Equatoria State.
