University of Juba lecturer declares interest in presidential race
A senior lecturer at the University of Juba, Aleu Garang Aleu, has expressed interest in contesting the presidency as an independent candidate in the anticipated general elections.
Aleu, who serves as Dean of the School of Community Studies and Rural Development at the University of Juba, is an academic with extensive qualifications, including a PhD and a Master of Arts from Makerere University, as well as a Master of Science degree from the University of Cape Town.
Speaking on the country’s political future, Alue urged authorities to proceed with elections scheduled for December, arguing that a vote would provide an opportunity for peace and democratic transformation.
“Holding elections in December this year is the best way forward. This will offer the opportunity for peace and democratic transformation. Endless transitions are suffocating the country and exacerbating the suffering of the people. It is better to have a bad election than no election,” he said.
His remarks come amid ongoing debate over South Sudan’s political transition and growing calls from some political and civil society actors for the country to hold its long-delayed elections.
No official nomination has yet been announced, but Alue’s declaration adds to the list of individuals expressing interest in contesting the country’s highest office ahead of the planned polls.
