The People United Forum (PUF), a newly formed political party, inaugurated its State Secretariat over the weekend in Torit, the capital of Eastern Equatoria State.
Officials pledged to place youth and women at the centre of political involvement and national development.
The new office is being described not merely as a party base but as a venue where citizens can voice concerns, share ideas, organise politically and take part in public discussions, according to party representatives.
PUF was founded on 27 July 2022 under the leadership of Dr. Gai Chol Paul. The party states that it supports democratic participation, national unity, the rule of law, separation of powers, an inclusive economy and stronger public institutions to fight corruption.
Its founding declaration urged South Sudanese to move beyond tribalism, regionalism and clan-based politics and to work for a peaceful, democratic and prosperous nation.
At the opening ceremony last Saturday, Daniel Ongejuk, Chairperson of PUF in Eastern Equatoria State, said the party’s duty is to hear communities and convert their concerns into concrete political steps.
“Our responsibility is therefore to listen to our people, understand their priorities, and work with all stakeholders to advance practical solutions,” he said.
Ofere Stephene, the PUF youth league chairperson, called on young South Sudanese to reject political manipulation, tribal hatred and violence.
“Tribalism is not our inheritance, nor our nature,” he stated.
He maintained that South Sudan’s large youth population should no longer be viewed only as a voting group mobilised at election time.
The youth leadership also demanded a specific 20 percent youth quota, insisting that young people need a formal place in political decision-making.
Santa Ifere Valerio, PUF Women League Chairlady in Eastern Equatoria, welcomed the party’s support for women’s involvement and said women must firmly protect their political space.
She highlighted the existing 35 percent women’s representation as a valuable opportunity, while urging women to keep pressing for higher levels, including 50 percent or more.
“Every woman and everyone should stand up to speak our voices,” she said.
Ifere invited women to join and register with the party, stressing that PUF’s unity message aims to unite people irrespective of tribe.
Supporters such as Mary Safari see the opening of the Torit office as a sign of greater political inclusion.“We want this party to stand with us, especially women,” she said.
“We want to be together; we don’t want to be left behind.”
She also appealed for peaceful elections, encouraging citizens to take part in political life without allowing competition to turn into conflict.
