The Political Parties Council (PPC) has officially registered five additional political parties, including the former Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO) led by Par Kuol, which has formally changed its name to the IO Party, bringing the total number of registered political parties in South Sudan to 39.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the Council announced that it had approved the registration of the IO Party, formerly known as SPLM-IO, alongside the National Democratic Movement (NDM), People’s Liberal Party (PLP), South Sudan National Movement for Change (SSNMC), and Revive South Sudan Party (RSSP).
The PPC said the approvals followed a comprehensive verification process in line with the Political Parties Act.
“Following an exhaustive verification process and in strict accordance with the provisions of the Political Parties Act, the Council has officially approved and endorsed the full registration of the following political entities.”
The Council also confirmed that it had formally recognized the change of name from SPLM-IO to the IO Party.
“The Council has formally recognized and recorded the structural transition of the ‘SPLM-in-Opposition’ to its newly approved legal nomenclature, the IO Party. This name change has been codified in the official registration to ensure a distinct, separate legal entity ahead of the upcoming electoral cycle.”
The announcement comes amid months of internal divisions within the former SPLM-IO over the party’s leadership and direction.
The movement has experienced growing tensions following the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar, with rival factions emerging and disputing the legitimacy of decisions made by the party’s interim leadership. The PPC statement did not address the internal disputes or explain the reasons behind the party’s rebranding.
Besides the IO Party, the registration of the National Democratic Movement, People’s Liberal Party, South Sudan National Movement for Change, and Revive South Sudan Party expands the country’s list of legally recognized political organizations.
The Council said the latest registrations strengthen political pluralism ahead of South Sudan’s planned elections.
“The Political Parties Council commends all registered political organizations for their cooperation, compliance, and commitment to working within the established legal framework of South Sudan.”
It added that the registration of the parties provides a broader foundation for democratic participation.
“The Council reiterates that the formal registration of these parties provides a diversified, broad-based foundation for political pluralism.”
The PPC also called on all political parties to conduct their activities peacefully and within the law.
“The PPC urges all approved organizations to conduct their upcoming internal conventions, civic mobilizations, and party activities peacefully, lawfully, and in total accordance with the Transitional Constitution of South Sudan.”
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