Charles Udwar Ukech

Charles Udwar Ukech is a South Sudanese politician who serves as the Speaker of the Eastern Equatoria State Transitional Legislative Assembly. He was appointed in April 2024 following a presidential decree and has since played an active role in regional governance, conflict resolution, and community peace initiatives.

Political career

Appointment as Speaker Udwar was sworn in as Speaker on 8 April 2024 in Torit. His appointment followed a decree by President Salva Kiir Mayardit that reshuffled several state officials. In his inaugural speech, Udwar emphasized inclusivity, dialogue, and respect within the assembly.

Leadership and legislative activities On 2 September 2024, Udwar issued a parliamentary order reshuffling committee heads aligned with the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM), relieving several officials and appointing new leadership within the assembly.

In February 2025, Udwar chaired a major stakeholder forum addressing intercommunal conflict and cattle migration in the region. The forum adopted fifteen resolutions, including calls for disarmament, compensation for destroyed property, and the return of abducted individuals.

During a legislative recess in 2025, Udwar publicly urged security agencies to protect communities affected by violence and condemned the destruction of homes and farms in conflict-affected counties.

In January 2026, Ukech urged newly appointed county commissioners in Eastern Equatoria to prioritize security, dialogue, and preparation for upcoming elections.

Capacity-building and governance engagements Udwar participated in capacity-building initiatives led by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), focusing on conflict resolution, community dialogue, and legislative effectiveness.

Other roles Before becoming Speaker, Udwar served as Vice President of the South Sudan Football Association (SSFA). He participated in football governance, youth engagement, and federation partnerships, including corporate contributions toward national football programs.

Leadership style Udwar is known for advocating inclusive governance and community participation. In his inaugural address, he highlighted the importance of providing a platform for all ethnic communities in Eastern Equatoria and acknowledged institutional challenges such as salary delays, limited resources, and the absence of an emoluments act for constitutional post-holders.