**THE AFRICA TIMES | SOUTH SUDAN —**
Political Tensions Surround Leadership Dispute
JUBA – The United Sudan African Party (USAP) has accused the Political Parties Council (PPC) of violating the constitution and interfering in its internal leadership. This dispute could further deepen political tensions ahead of South Sudan’s anticipated 2026 elections.
Allegations of Unlawful Removal
USAP alleges that James Akol Zakayo, Chairperson of the PPC, unlawfully removed party leader Joseph Malek, replacing him with Prof. Ajang Bior without valid authority or consultation.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Joseph Malek, the Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs as well as USAP chair, described this action as a dangerous overreach by a constitutional body. He highlighted the PPC’s



