30/04/2025
The Kampala Project: Potential Successors to President Salva Kiir Mayardit
There is a quiet but deliberate effort underway to unify the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) under a single political structure in anticipation of a future leadership transition. This effort, informally known as The Kampala Project, has reportedly received regional backing — most notably from Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni — and aims to forge a post-Kiir consensus among historical SPLM leaders.
Yet, behind the language of unity lies a more complex reality. As the SPLM attempts to consolidate itself, some senior figures may be sidelined — either due to internal rivalries, shifting alliances, generational politics, or their perceived loyalty (or disloyalty) to the current establishment. The process is as political as it is strategic.
Though South Sudanese citizens have no formal vote in who becomes the next president, the choice will have far-reaching consequences for peace, economic recovery, justice, and national identity. Understanding who is being considered — and what they represent — is a public matter of great importance.
Who among these potential successors would you trust to lead South Sudan — and why? Or do you believe none of them are suitable for the presidency?
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Kampala Project – List of Floated Successor Names
Gen. Akol Koor Kuc
Former Director of the Internal Security Bureau (NSS), currently detained in Juba. Known for his behind-the-scenes power and long-standing influence over South Sudan’s internal security machinery.
H.E. Benjamin Bol Mel
Vice President for the Economic Cluster and former Chairman of the South Sudan Business Community. A close financial ally of the presidency with vast influence in economic decision-making circles.
Hon. Deng Alor Kuol
Minister of East African Affairs and former Minister of Foreign Affairs. A veteran SPLM figure tied to the Abyei region and a long-time ally of Dr. John Garang. Holds regional and diplomatic credibility.
Hon. Dr. James Wani Igga
Current Secretary-General of the SPLM and former Vice President for the Economic Cluster. An SPLM/SPLA veteran with a reputation for political loyalty, strategic patience, and party discipline.
Hon. John G*i Yoh
Former Minister of Higher Education and noted academic. Known for his diplomatic acumen and policy experience in the education sector. Maintains a low profile but a strong technocratic image.
Hon. Majak D’Agoot Atem
Former Deputy Minister of Defense and Deputy Director of Intelligence. A reformist academic and security strategist, known for his criticism of authoritarianism and his call for institutional renewal.
H.E. Rebecca Nyandeng De Mabior
Vice President for the Gender and Youth Cluster and widow of the late Dr. John Garang. She remains a moral and historical figure in the SPLM, advocating reconciliation and unity.
Mr. Mayar Salva Kiir Mayardit
Reportedly one of President Kiir’s sons. Known mostly within business and private circles, his political visibility has increased amid succession discussions tied to First Family dynamics.
Hon. Mayiik Ayii Deng
Former Minister of Presidential Affairs and Foreign Affairs. A close associate of President Kiir, with a record of managing delicate political assignments and foreign relations.
Hon. Nhial Deng Nhial
Former Minister of Defense and Presidential Affairs. Son of SPLM founder William Deng Nhial. Widely respected for his quiet authority and long-standing service to the movement.
Gen. Oyai Deng Ajak
Former SPLA Chief of General Staff and Minister of National Security. Member of the SPLM-G10 and an advocate for military reform and national unity. A respected voice within the armed forces.
Hon. Pagan Amum Okiech
Former SPLM Secretary-General and current leader of the Real SPLM opposition faction. One of the architects of the CPA and South Sudan’s independence; a firm advocate for constitutional democracy.
Gen. Paul Malong Awan
Former SPLA Chief of General Staff. Once among the most powerful figures in the military, later fell out with President Kiir and now leads the South Sudan United Front (SSUF). Maintains strong nationalist support.
Hon. Paul Mayom Akech
Former Minister of Information and Water Resources. A seasoned civil servant and SPLM loyalist known for his administrative reliability and party continuity.
Hon. Riek G*i Kok
Former Minister of Health and current Governor of Jonglei State. Previously associated with SPLM-IO before switching back to SPLM-IG. Known for his pragmatism and service record.
H.E. Rin Tueny Mabor
Current Governor of Lakes State and a former military commander. Recognized for his enforcement of law and order, and credited with stabilizing his state through assertive local governance.
H.E. Taban Deng G*i
Vice President for the Infrastructure Cluster and former Governor of Unity State. Originally part of SPLM-IO, he defected to SPLM-IG and has remained a controversial but skilled political operator.
Mr. Thiik Salva Kiir Mayardit
Another son of President Kiir, active in local governance structures. Widely believed to be the “Crown Prince” referenced in succession rumors, though with limited national political experience.
Gen. Thomas Cirillo Swaka
Leader of the National Salvation Front (NAS) and former Deputy Chief of Logistics in the SPLA. A federalist and opposition leader committed to restructuring the state through armed and political struggle.
None of the above
I prefer a new face or an alternative leadership figure not included on this list.
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Disclaimer:
Some of the information contained in this document is drawn from reporting by PaanLuel Wël and other public sources. This information is intended strictly for public information and discussion purposes. Its credibility remains subject to verification, and much of it should be treated as rumor or political speculation until independently confirmed through official processes.
