The People United Forum (PUF), a new political party, opened a State Secretariat over the weekend in the Eastern Equatoria State capital, Torit, pledging to make youth and women central to political participation and national development.
The newly opened office is being presented not simply as a party headquarters, but as a space for citizens to raise concerns, exchange ideas, organize politically and participate in public dialogue, according to officials.
PUF was established on 27 July 2022 under the leadership of Dr. Gai Chol Paul. The party says it advocates for democratic participation, national unity, the rule of law, separation of powers, an inclusive economy, and stronger public institutions to combat corruption.
Its founding declaration called on South Sudanese to overcome tribalism, regionalism, and clan-based politics and work toward a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous country.
Speaking at the opening ceremony last Saturday, Daniel Ongejuk, Chairperson of PUF in Eastern Equatoria State, said the party’s responsibility is to listen to communities and turn their concerns into practical political action.
“Our responsibility is therefore to listen to our people, understand their priorities, and work with all stakeholders to advance practical solutions,” he stated.
For his part, Ofere Stephene, the PUF youth league chairperson, challenged young South Sudanese to reject political manipulation, tribal hatred and violence.
“Tribalism is not our inheritance, nor our nature,” he said.
He argued that South Sudan’s young population should no longer be treated simply as a voting bloc mobilized during elections.
The youth leadership also raised a specific demand for a 20 percent youth quota, arguing that young people must have a recognized place at the political decision-making table.
Meanwhile, Santa Ifere Valerio, PUF Women League Chairlady in Eastern Equatoria, welcomed the party’s commitment to women’s participation and said women must stand firmly to defend their political space.
She pointed to the 35 percent women’s representation as an important opportunity, while saying women should continue pushing for even greater representation, including 50 percent or more.
“Every woman and everyone should stand up to speak our voices,” she said.
Ifere encouraged women to join and register with the party, emphasizing that PUF’s message of unity is intended to bring people together regardless of tribe.
For supporters such as Mary Safari, the opening of the Torit office represents a new sense of political inclusion.
“We want this party to stand with us, especially women,” she said. “We want to be together; we don’t want to be left behind.”
She also called for peaceful elections, urging citizens to participate in political affairs without turning political competition into conflict.
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