Long-time political aspirant Mboriman Mbory Edward has formally declared his bid for Governor of Western Equatoria State, pledging to pursue what he described as a new path focused on security, development and unity.
Mboriman made the declaration at the SPLM National Secretariat in Juba as he entered the party’s primary contest for the governorship ahead of the planned December 2026 general elections.
In his statement, Mboriman said his decision to contest was not driven by tribal allegiance or regional interests, but by a commitment to serve the people of Western Equatoria State regardless of their background.
“Our decision to contest is not driven by tribal allegiance or regional favoritism,” he said, adding that he wanted to serve the state’s population “equally and fairly.”
Mboriman identified human security, food security and resource security among his key priorities, alongside investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure.
He said improving agriculture and supporting sustainable livelihoods would be important to reducing food insecurity, while the state’s natural resources should be protected for the benefit of present and future generations.
The aspirant also placed women and young people among his priorities, pledging to promote greater opportunities for them and recognise their role in the development of Western Equatoria.
On infrastructure, Mboriman said his vision included developing new structures and rehabilitating existing facilities to meet the needs of the state’s population.
He also called for a united Western Equatoria, saying harmony and mutual respect should guide relations among communities across the state.
“We are committed to advocating for a united Western Equatoria State, where harmony and mutual respect guide how we live together as one people, regardless of our backgrounds,” he said.
Mboriman’s declaration marks his formal entry into the SPLM primary race after years of aspiring to lead the state.
He is also expected to face competition from other aspirants seeking the SPLM ticket as the party prepares for its internal electoral process.
Mboriman thanked President Salva Kiir Mayardit, who also chairs the SPLM, as well as the party’s leadership, for what he described as their guidance.
He ended his declaration with a pledge to “change the narrative” in Western Equatoria State, framing his candidacy around peace, unity, development and improved services.
