Aggrey Duku Arkengelo Wins Highly Contested Central Equatoria Youth Union Chairmanship

JUBA — The hotly contested race for the chairperson of the Central Equatoria Youth Union has concluded with the election of Aggrey Duku Arkengelo.

The election brought together a diverse field of five candidates—three women and two men—all vying for the top leadership position.

A Historic Milestone for Democratic Debate

This election cycle introduced a groundbreaking dimension to the state’s democratic process by hosting live candidate debates. Juba Echo TV made history as the first media outlet to bring all five contestants together for a live television debate.

The broadcast sparked intense online discussion, dividing public opinion:

• The Critics: Some viewers argued that the presenter’s questions were overly harsh and difficult for the candidates.
• The Supporters: Others praised the host for bravery, commending the sharp questioning on critical issues that people in South Sudan often fear to address publicly.

Following the initial television broadcast, a second debate was organized last Sunday, providing all candidates with an equal platform to present and defend their manifestos to the public.

The Road to the Ballot

The election was the culmination of a rigorous three-day convention. From Monday to Wednesday, the leadership of the Central Equatoria State Youth Union, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, convened an intensive meeting. The gathering brought together all five contestants and youth delegates from across the entire state, culminating in the final vote.

The other candidates were Flavia Lisok Morris, Nelson Wani Oliver Kenyi, Aggrey Duku Arkengelo, Keji Victoria Yassin and Kiden Jackline Michael.