The SPLM is considering tough action against members who have decided to contest as independents in the upcoming April 11 elections against the party nominees.
Felix Okanyi Remidjio, the SPLM party deputy Chairman for Eastern Equatoria State, told Radio Emmanuel that the independent candidates are likely to be dismissed for defying party rules.Mr. Okanyi said that the SPLM Constitution restricts members from competing against each other but the party state office awaits final resolution from the SPLM Political Bureau to decide on the fate of the independent candidates.
Mr. Okanyi said the 24 SPLM party members contesting for various elective positions in the state as independents, including the incumbent governor Aloisio Emor Ojetuk, will face dismissal.
Governor Ojetuk opted to defend his position as an independent candidate following the nomination of Louis Lobong Lojore as the SPLM party candidate for the post.
He said he decided to join the governorship race after consultations with the Government of Southern Sudan, the leadership of SPLM as well as pressure from his supporters.
Mr. Ojetuk added that he intends to prove his failures and successes in the state during the term of his governance.