Smaller parties in Sudan’s W. Equatoria accuse governor of using state resources for campaign

March 3, 2010 (YAMBIO) – A number of smaller opposition parties in Western Equatoria state have accused the caretaker governor of massive utilization of government resources and assets during campaign rallies.

The Western Equatoria caretaker governor, Jemma Nunu Kumba, also doubles as SPLM flag bearer for the Western Equatoria gubernatorial contest.

During the launch of the SPLM campaign in this agriculturally rich state, over 50 government vehicles were used to transport civilians to make the launching colorful and famous.

Concern about this has been raised by WES gubernatorial independent candidate Col. Joseph Bakosoro: “It is deplorable to witness the excessive use of government resources by one candidate, given the fact that the resources are under the government which is composed of other parties.”

Two days ago, a double cabin Land Cruiser (plate GOSS WES – 0017C) overturned and left the driver dead and many others wounded. The vehicle had left Source Yubu for Yambio, after the agents of the caretaker governor were chased in Source Yubu where they had gone to campaign for the caretaker governor.

Political parties and independents have been banned from using Yambio FM, which is the only medium of reaching the grassroots.

“Nobody apart from the caretaker governor should talk over FM concerning the election,” one of his aides was quoted as whispering to Yambio FM Interim administration.

There are also some fears of intimidation. It was reported that the incumbent governor urged foreign community leaders to convince their people to vote for her in the coming general elections, or else face deportation.

It was also said that two days ago the Office Manager of Ibba County Commissioner was caught red handed advising one SPLA soldier of Battalion 137 that, “nobody should campaign in Ibba county for governorship except Nunu.”

Ordinary people who have lived for five years in dire poverty after the signing of CPA see this as “bullying and mere jokes.”

“Why at this time? I’m a Christian and I live on my faith, [but] at this moment I’m not talking to [God] because I’m very bitter at this stage, we need change,” said Keliopa Mboriyo.

He and his family fled to Gangura payam to Yambio where they now fear for their lives.

“Anyone who is resisting the change has something to hide – it’s as simple as that,” he said. “If you have nothing to hide, let’s do the elections to establish what has happened.”

(ST)