A senior team from the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM), led by Secretary General Prof. Paul Logale Jumi, and has landed in Kampala to take part in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Conference, a high-profile gathering hosted by Uganda’s ruling party.
The visit comes as the SPLM prepares for South Sudan’s first post-independence elections, sparking speculation that the ruling party is seeking lessons from Uganda’s NRM, which has maintained political dominance for nearly four decades under President Yoweri Museveni.
Before departure, SPLM Secretary for Political Affairs, Bol Makueng, spoke to the media about the purpose of the trip.
“The SPLM and the NRM share a historic bond built during the liberation struggle. This partnership remains strong, not only politically but also in shaping governance and leadership. Our Secretary General will deliver greetings from President Salva Kiir Mayardit to President Museveni during the conference,” he explained.
The SPLM has been under pressure to reinvent itself, reconnect with citizens, and strengthen its internal structures ahead of the long-delayed elections.
Observers say learning from the NRM’s ability to maintain grassroots networks and control could be part of the ruling party’s strategy.
Political analyst Dr. Samuel Bith told reporters in Juba that the trip may influence the SPLM’s direction.
“This visit is more than symbolic. It’s about how the SPLM positions itself for the elections. The NRM’s staying power is built on organization and political discipline two things the SPLM needs urgently,” he said.
On the streets of Juba and Yambio, citizens voiced mixed feelings, as Mary Paite, a vegetable trader in Yambio open market, said she hopes the visit will lead to change.
“If they learn from NRM how to organize and serve the people, then it is good. We want to see schools, hospitals, and roads, not just political speeches,” she said.
“These trips are good for politicians, but ordinary people still suffer with no jobs and high prices, the SPLM should fix problems here instead of copying Uganda,” said James Oronzi, a boda-boda rider.
The SPLM’s trip to Uganda is not only about diplomacy but also about strengthening regional alliances and finding a blueprint for survival in competitive politics.
With young voters, economic pressures, and peace building challenges at home, the ruling party is under more scrutiny than ever.
For many South Sudanese, the real test will be whether the Kampala visit brings practical reforms and tangible benefits.
“History with NRM is important, but history won’t feed us. We want jobs, unity, and development. If this trip helps SPLM think about the people, then it will be worth it.” Said Regina Duku
