Tensions are reportedly rising within the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) in Abiem East ahead of the party’s upcoming primary elections, following allegations that former Vice President Hussein Adelbagi Ayii has attempted to influence delegates in favour of particular candidates.
Abdelbagi, a politician associated with the opposition South Sudan Opposition Alliance (SSOA), previously served as Vice President representing the alliance and is currently a presidential adviser.
According to a concerned SPLM member who spoke to Standard Zone News on condition of anonymity due to security concerns, Abdelbagi travelled to Amarjal on Wednesday, where he reportedly convened a meeting with 210 delegates representing Madhol and Malual Baai Payams.
The source alleged that during the meeting, financial incentives were offered to delegates in exchange for supporting Abdelbagi’s preferred candidates, reportedly including his wife and Yel Deng Nguel.
The allegations have reportedly unsettled sections of the SPLM membership, with some party members questioning why a politician associated with an opposition alliance would allegedly involve himself in the ruling party’s internal electoral process.
The concerned members fear that the alleged activities could undermine the credibility of the primaries, influence delegates’ independence and deepen divisions among party supporters in Abiem East.
The source called on President Salva Kiir Mayardit, in his capacity as SPLM Chairman, and the party’s Secretary-General to intervene and ensure that the primary elections are conducted transparently and without external influence.
The controversy comes as political competition intensifies ahead of the party’s internal nominations, with delegates expected to determine candidates who will represent the SPLM in the forthcoming elections.
Standard Zone News could not independently verify the allegations. Efforts to reach Hussein Adelbagi Ayii or his office for comment were unsuccessful, as the newsroom was unable to obtain direct contact details for his office by the time of publication.
The allegations remain unverified, and Adelbagi has not publicly responded to the claims in this report.
