S. Sudan opposition alliance unveils 7-point reform program

December 14, 2014 (JUBA) – At least 17 South Sudanese opposition parties have agreed to form an alliance aiming at restructuring the country into a viable and flourishing nation.

According to a communique issued by the parties, the alliance was formed because the need for radical change had never been more urgent.

The opposition groups have appealed to the people of South Sudan to rally around the alliance in support, describing it as a solid foundation for developing national unity and a beacon on the path towards progress and prosperity.

The seven-point reform program covers economy, defence and internal security, foreign policy, attainment of peace, governance and administration, as well as social services, with an emphasis on investment in a viable and quality education sector.

The reform agenda provides for the protection of fundamental freedoms, with guarantees for absolute security according to the rule of law, equitable justice for all before the law and the abolishment of impunity.

It also seeks to guarantee democratic choices, freedom of expression and association, as well as enshrined press freedoms.

In addition, the alliance is calling for the adoption of all international and regional conventions and covenants on human rights and freedoms.

Members of the alliance include Lam Akol Ajawin, leader of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement for Democratic Change (SPLM-DC), Kornelio Kon Ngu, leader of the National Union Party (NUP), Abdallah Deng Nhial, leader of Popular Congress Party, Albino John Laku Awan, leader of the Democratic United Party (DUP), and Garang Thuc Garang, representing PURE party.

Other members include:

– Sebastian Uchan Kich, leader – United Democratic Front
– Nkrumah Anai Kelueljang, chairman – South Sudan National Youth Party
– Paskalina Philip, chairperson – South Sudan Democratic Alliance
– Philip Yona Jambi, chairman – National Democratic Alliance
– Abraham Kotriak, chairman – SUNU-National
– Ismael Suleiman Saed, chairman – Communist Party of South Sudan
– Steward Soroba, deputy chairman – United Democratic Party
– Abbas Bullen Ajalla, secretary-general – USDF-Mainstream
– Juma Saed Worju, secretary-general – South Sudan National Party
– Andrew Philipson Abilli, acting secretary-general – NUMP
– Stephen Goro Gabriel, secretary-general – NDF
– Peter Lomude Francis, secretary-general – USSP.

(ST)