The former secretary for research and training of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Northern Bahr el Ghazal and a prominent member of the party has spoken out in defense of Governor Simon Ober Mawut amid increasing calls for his removal from office.
Speaking to Standard Zone News on Wednesday, Jok acknowledged the leadership challenges within the state’s SPLM leadership but insisted that such issues should remain internal.
“We have internal matters that should not be shared externally, whether through media outlets or social media. These are SPLM family issues that must be handled within our structures. Those taking their concerns to social media are violating our party’s internal rules and regulations,” Jok stated.
He emphasized that the SPLM constitution provides clear procedures for addressing grievances within party structures.
“If a member raises complaints publicly against another member or the party leadership, it is a serious violation of our code of conduct. The correct approach is to submit concerns through written appeals to the appropriate party organs or the state secretariat,” Jok explained.
He further noted that the state secretariat serves as the official avenue for resolving disputes, and if necessary, the State Liberation Council can intervene.
“The council has mechanisms in place. If a quorum of two-thirds is reached, they can convene and summon the state chairperson to hear grievances. That is how issues should be resolved,” he added.
The controversy follows mounting criticism of Governor Simon Ober Mawut, with opponents accusing him of failing the state’s leadership, prompting calls for his removal.
Rumors about his potential dismissal intensified after he traveled to Juba on May 23, 2025, and had yet to return to the state. Speculation spread that he had been summoned by the national leadership and was awaiting dismissal.
In response, the governor’s deputy press secretary, Garang Makuei, swiftly denied the allegations, clarifying that the governor was in Juba on an official visit.
Makuei explained that Governor Ober Mawut had formally requested permission from national leadership to provide updates on state projects and security developments.
“When he arrived in Juba, he sent a letter to the president requesting approval to brief national leadership. He was granted permission to present his updates,” Makuei clarified.
He dismissed the rumors as politically motivated, stating, “Those spreading these false claims are enemies of the state who want to celebrate an unachieved victory. If the president intended to remove him, he wouldn’t summon him to Juba. Being in Juba does not automatically mean dismissal.”
As speculation continues, Governor Ober Mawut’s political future remains uncertain. While his office maintains that his visit to Juba is routine, critics see it as a sign of impending change. The unfolding situation will determine whether the governor retains his position or whether mounting pressure from political opponents will lead to a leadership shake-up in Northern Bahr el Ghazal.
