A coalition of opposition parties warned Friday that political maneuvering by South Sudan’s ruling party is undermining preparations for long-delayed national elections, insisting the vote must proceed in December this year without further postponement.
Peter Mayen Majongdit, leader of the People’s Liberal Party and a leading member of the Other Political Parties (OPP) coalition, accused the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) of using intimidation and “divide-and-rule” tactics to weaken its rivals.
“If you have a problem with us, come open. Leave your gun behind and let us go to the public,” Mayen told reporters in Juba following a two-day strategy conference.
The OPP is a key signatory to the 2018 revitalized peace agreement. The coalition is split into two factions: an umbrella group led by Mayen and the National Alliance of Political Parties led by Deputy Speaker Kornelio Kon.
South Sudan has not held a national election since gaining independence in 2011. Polls originally scheduled for 2015 have been repeatedly pushed back due to civil war, political deadlock, and economic instability.
Mayen rejected arguments that insecurity or financial hardship justify another delay, describing elections as the only path out of the country’s current crisis.
“We have no plan B; elections have to happen,” he said. “Economic hardship cannot be a scapegoat.”
The opposition leader alleged that some officials within the government are seeking excuses for an extension despite public commitments by President Salva Kiir to hold the vote. Mayen noted that the National Elections Commission’s announcement of electoral boundaries in December effectively closed the window for further transitional extensions.
Mayen also accused the ruling party of marginalizing his coalition by reallocating government posts intended for the OPP to political allies. He said several lawmakers from his group had been removed and replaced by figures who no longer represent the coalition.
“Give us what belongs to us,” Mayen said. “Enough—four years is enough. The time for eating is over.”
The opposition group said it would formally submit resolutions to the presidency demanding the restoration of its ministerial positions and the right to appoint its own representatives as the election deadline approaches.
SPLM officials could not immediately be reached for comment.