The opposition National Democratic Movement (NDM) has been thrown into political turmoil after a faction within the party announced that it has removed veteran politician Dr. Lam Akol Ajawin from his position as party leader.
The dramatic declaration was made at a press conference in Juba today on Wednesday. Senior NDM member Peter Lomude Francis, speaking on behalf of the group, read out a statement saying that the decision was taken by what they described as the party’s highest decision making body following extensive consultations and internal reviews.
The faction claims the decision was unanimous and effective immediately.
Accusations Against Dr. Lam Akol
According to the splinter group, Dr. Akol’s leadership weakened party unity and undermined internal democratic processes.
The statement accused him of serious and repeated violations of party rules, including unilateral actions that went against resolutions of key party bodies.
The group also alleged that Dr. Akol formed parallel structures, interfered in internal elections, and promoted tribal divisions within the party.
They claim that decisions on parliamentary caucus and leadership posts were influenced to benefit close associates and members of his own ethnic group.
In addition, the faction accused Dr. Akol of nepotism in allocating government and military positions, and of failing to ensure transparency and accountability in party finances issues they say eroded confidence in his leadership.
Interim Leadership Named
Following the announcement, the group named Mahjoub Biel Turuk, a former secretary-general of NDM and ex-governor of Jonglei State, as interim chairman pending a full party conference.
The statement reiterated the group’s pledge to honour the 2018 peace agreement and uphold democratic governance within the party.
NDM Rejects the Move
However, the official NDM spokesperson Kai Tap Gatchang dismissed the faction’s actions as illegitimate, saying those involved were acting outside established party structures.
He described the move as the work of a breakaway group that lacked authority to change the party leadership.
Kai affirmed that only the National Leadership Council (NLC) not the splinter faction has the power to remove or appoint party leaders, and urged members to remain calm amid the dispute.
