South Sudan has chosen new leadership for its Olympic movement, with Choul Pal Gai elected as President of the South Sudan National Olympic Committee (SSNOC) for the 2025–2029 term during a landmark assembly in Juba.
The vote marked the end of Eng. Juma Stephen’s long tenure, a period credited with guiding the country through its historic Olympic debut and laying the foundation for international recognition.
In his victory speech, Pal Gai thanked his predecessor and pledged to usher in a fresh chapter for South Sudanese sport.
“This election is a new beginning,” he declared. “Our work will speak for itself. We will build, we will serve, and we will unite.”
Pal Gai’s agenda centers on three pillars: constructing a permanent SSNOC headquarters, improving facilities and opportunities for athletes, and using sports as a tool to strengthen peace and national identity.
The government welcomed the new leadership. Monica Agum Awet Akot, Undersecretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, congratulated Pal Gai and emphasized partnership between state and committee.
“The torch now rests in your hand,” she said. “With it comes the responsibility to inspire athletes, elevate institutions, and raise South Sudan’s global profile.”
A joint government–SSNOC roadmap will prioritize infrastructure upgrades, athlete welfare, youth engagement, gender equality, and international partnerships.
Representing the international Olympic family, Eng. Ahmed Abdulgasim praised the process as a triumph of democratic spirit. He urged the new board to strengthen cooperation with government and honor the 30% women’s representation benchmark.
“Democracy prevailed,” Abdulgasim said. “Now we move forward together.”
Pal Gai brings long-standing experience in sports administration and youth advocacy. His campaign promise — “To Build, To Serve, To Unite” — now becomes the guiding vision of his leadership.
Outgoing president Eng. Juma Stephen was hailed for his resilience and for steering South Sudan through its first Olympic appearance as an independent nation.
As South Sudan turns the page, expectations are high that the Olympic movement will not only grow institutions but also bring people together in a country where sports remain a rare unifying force.
