Ater Deng Mabok has been re-elected as President of the Rumbek Local Football Association in Lakes State, South Sudan, for a four-year term running until 2029.
The election, held on Wednesday in Rumbek town, saw Mabok secure 22 out of 42 valid votes (51.8%), defeating his closest rival in a closely contested race.
Mabok, who has led the association for eight years, will be joined by Peter Mangar Manyiel as Vice President, Michael Marial Mangar as Secretary General, and Isaac Chol Deng as Treasurer. All three officials were elected with strong majorities.
Abdallah Delesuk, chairperson of the sub-electoral committee, declared the results, emphasizing the election’s adherence to the association’s statutes. The newly elected team took office on 26 February 2025.
William Koji Kirjok, Lakes State’s Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports, addressed concerns over player discipline, urging the association to address incidents of on-field violence and referee attacks. “We need to ensure our players are disciplined. Security on the field is now the responsibility of the Town Mayor,” he said.
In his acceptance speech, Mabok pledged to work with the government, clubs, and sports enthusiasts to promote football in Lakes State.
“This is my third term, and I am committed to elevating the sport despite challenges like funding shortages and a lack of referees,” he said. Mabok also announced plans to abolish participation fees for clubs, aiming to make the league more accessible.
Thiong John, a member of the South Sudan Football Association’s board of directors, praised the election as free and fair, urging the association to maintain transparency and competitiveness.