The National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) have formalized a cooperation agreement aimed at providing ideological training for SPLM leaders in Uganda. The training will take place at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi, known for its political leadership programs.
This agreement was reached during a high-level meeting held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, which brought together senior leaders from both parties. The NRM was represented by its Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, and the National Treasurer, Ambassador Barbara Nekesa. The SPLM delegation was led by Comrade Bol Makueng Youl, SPLM’s Secretary for External Relations, and included Dr. John Oryem, Secretary for Training and Research, Antipas Nyok Kucha, Deputy Principal of the Political School, and Dennis Marial Mourwel, Director of the Political Desk.
In his remarks, Todwong emphasized the importance of fostering stronger ties between the two parties and enhancing the leadership capacities of SPLM officials through the Kyankwanzi training program. He noted that this initiative is part of Uganda’s ongoing support for the growth of multiparty democracy in South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011, making it the world’s youngest nation.
“The NRM is committed to supporting our South Sudanese brothers and sisters by facilitating their training. This is our contribution to strengthening democratic institutions in South Sudan,” Todwong stated.
The discussions also touched on ways to improve socio-economic cooperation between Uganda and South Sudan, with a focus on promoting cross-border trade and removing trade barriers. Both parties expressed optimism that enhanced collaboration would benefit the citizens of both nations.
Comrade Bol Makueng Youl, speaking on behalf of the SPLM, expressed gratitude for the long-standing support Uganda has provided to South Sudan, particularly during its struggle for self-determination. He highlighted Uganda’s role in supporting the development of South Sudan’s defense, economy, and democratic institutions.
“You have been a steadfast partner in our journey toward independence, and we are grateful for your continued support in building our nation. We eagerly anticipate the training of our cadres to equip them with the ideological foundation necessary for leading the country forward,” Bol said.
Ambassador Barbara Nekesa, NRM’s National Treasurer, emphasized the mutual benefits of the partnership, stating that NRM also looks forward to learning from SPLM’s experiences in mobilization and service delivery. She encouraged dialogue between SPLM and its political opponents in South Sudan, urging both sides to prioritize peace for the benefit of all citizens.
Retired Major Awich Pollar, the NRM’s Director for External Affairs, reiterated NRM’s commitment to working with other revolutionary parties, including SPLM, citing shared aspirations and values. “It is fitting that SPLM has paid us this courtesy visit to discuss progress on bilateral issues,” Maj. Awich remarked.
Several other senior NRM officials attended the meeting, including Dr. Tanga Odoi, Chairman of the NRM Electoral Commission, Deputy National Treasurer Hon. Jacqueline Kyatuhaire, and Directors Hon. Emmanuel Dombo (Communications), Maj. Okwir Rabwoni (Youth and Institutions), and Counsel Enoch Barata (Legal Services).
The ideological training program is expected to help SPLM leaders strengthen their party’s leadership and governance, ensuring they are well-equipped to steer South Sudan through its current challenges and into a more stable future.
| Key Participants from NRM and SPLM | Roles |
|---|---|
| Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong | NRM Secretary General |
| Amb. Barbara Nekesa | NRM National Treasurer |
| Cde. Bol Makueng Youl | SPLM Secretary for External Relations |
| Dr. John Oryem | SPLM Secretary for Training and Research |
| Antipas Nyok Kucha | SPLM Deputy Principal for Political School |
| Dennis Marial Mourwel | SPLM Director for Political Desk |
| Maj. Awich Pollar | NRM Director for External Affairs |
| Dr. Tanga Odoi | NRM Electoral Commission Chairman |
| Hon. Emmanuel Dombo | NRM Director of Communications |
