Yau Yau’s Swift Political Shift: From SPLM-IO to SPLM-IG
David Yau Yau, former Deputy Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, surprised many by rejoining President Kiir’s SPLM party just a month after leaving SPLM-IO. In an exclusive interview with The City Review, Puok Baluang, SPLM-IO Director of Information, confirmed Yau Yau’s defection, stating that Yau Yau’s sudden allegiance switch occurred during his visit to Pibor, accompanying the newly appointed Pibor chief administrator and SPLM-IO chairperson.
Despite discussions with SPLM-IO’s leadership, Yau Yau’s decision to switch sides caught them off guard. Baluang highlighted that Yau Yau had only been with SPLM-IO for 28 days, still under probationary observation as per internal regulations. Pal Mai Deng, SPLM-IO Spokesperson, also confirmed Yau Yau’s defection.
Yau Yau’s move comes after his dismissal from SPLM’s Liberation Council and revocation of his parliamentary appointment by President Kiir in October 2023. He had joined SPLM-IO in April 2024, citing dissatisfaction with SPLM’s leadership and vision for South Sudan. Yau Yau, a former rebel leader turned government official, had previously signed peace agreements and held various positions within South Sudan’s government.
