SPLM and Kenya’s UDA Forge Strategic Political Partnership to Enhance Regional Cooperation

 Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) and Kenya’s ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) have officially entered into a formal cooperation framework, in a significant development aimed at deepening historical ties and advancing regional integration.

The partnership was solidified through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) following high-level, party-to-party engagements in Juba. The agreement was confirmed during discussions between SPLM Chairman and the President of the Republic of South Sudan His Excellency Cde. Salva Kiir Mayardit, SPLM Secretary General, Cde. Dr. Akol Paul Kordit and UDA Secretary-General, Senator Hassan Omar Hassan and the accompanying delegation representing UDA Leadership and it's chairman H.E. Cde. William Samoei Ruto, the president of the Republic of Kenya.

The newly signed MoU establishes a structured path for collaboration between the two parties. The framework is designed to focus on several key areas of mutual interest, including strengthening institutional capacity and party-building, promoting ideological exchanges and dialogue, and implementing joint leadership training and research initiatives.

Speaking after his meeting with President Kiir, Senator Hassan Omar Hassan characterized the visit as a crucial step in reinforcing relations between the two parties and their respective populations. He noted that the delegation was honored to extend warm greetings from the President of the Republic of Kenya, William Ruto, to President Kiir. Senator Hassan stated that the memorandum allows for party-to-party exchanges, making the partnership between the UDA and SPLM more deliberate, focused, and centered on areas of mutual interest and benefit.

SPLM SG Cde. Dr. Akol Paul Kordit, who participated in the briefings, noted that Chairman Kiir Mayardit has officially welcomed the agreement and has directed both parties to ensure its prompt and effective implementation. Dr. Akol reported that the Chairman welcomed the signing of the MoU and urged the parties to operationalise the framework so that it delivers practical benefits.

Reflecting on the shared history between the two nations, Dr. Kordit emphasized the SPLM’s commitment to this new chapter of diplomacy. He remarked that South Sudan and Kenya enjoy cordial relations, shared cultures, shared traditions, and a common history of struggle for freedom. This cooperation framework is expected to facilitate regular, structured exchanges, further reinforcing the strong diplomatic, political, and historical bonds that have long existed between South Sudan and Kenya, while advancing shared goals of peace, democracy, and regional integration.