SPLM/A-IO · Appointment

Oyet Appoints Dr. Isaac Gang Kueth Spokesperson Amid Leadership Dispute

A letter dated 30 September names Kueth to lead the movement's information and communication committee. The appointment comes amid a dispute over who may act for the party.

By South Sudan Press · 2 October 2026

JUBA — Oyet Nathaniel Pierino, describing himself as acting chairman and commander-in-chief of the SPLM/A-IO, has appointed Dr. Isaac Gang Kueth chairperson of the movement’s National Committee for Information and Communication and its official spokesperson, according to a letter dated 30 September 2026 supplied to South Sudan Press.

The one-page letter, reference SPLM/SPLA-IO/062/2026, says the appointment took effect upon signature. It cites provisions of the movement’s 2015 constitution and earlier conference and political bureau resolutions as the basis for Oyet’s authority. The document bears his printed name, a handwritten signature and a seal. South Sudan Press has reviewed the supplied image but has not independently authenticated the original document or obtained a separate confirmation from Kueth.

Image of a 30 September 2026 SPLM/A-IO letter appointing Dr. Isaac Gang Kueth to the information and communication committee — Supplied image of the letter dated 30 September 2026. South Sudan Press has not inspected the original.

What the letter establishes: Oyet announced the appointment. What it does not settle: whether all SPLM/A-IO factions recognize his authority or Kueth as their spokesperson.

A contested leadership structure

The appointment arrives during an internal dispute involving Oyet and other senior figures over who has authority to act for the SPLM/A-IO. The existence of a letter issued in Oyet’s name should not be treated as proof that the broader movement has accepted its effect. South Sudan Press is seeking responses from Kueth, Oyet’s office and representatives of the rival leadership position.

The shift may also create uncertainty for newsrooms and diplomatic interlocutors seeking an authorized statement on the movement’s position. Earlier statements on a movement-associated site have named Puok Both Baluang in spokesperson and press-secretary roles. The new letter does not explain whether Kueth replaces him across all functions or how the roles relate.

Questions still open

Has Kueth accepted the role and begun issuing official communications? Will the other leadership faction recognize the appointment? What happens to the responsibilities previously exercised by Puok Both Baluang? A response and a verifiable original of the order would clarify the scope of this change.

Sources: Supplied appointment letter dated 30 September 2026; SPLM/A-IO news and statements for earlier spokesperson attribution. Independent reporting has described the Oyet–Kapa dispute; the appointment does not resolve it. Corrections: editor@southsudanpress.com.