In a press statement released today, Hon. Changkuoth Bichiock Reth, Secretary General of the Federal Democratic Party (FDP), responded to his alleged expulsion by FDP party leader, Hon. Gabriel Changson Chang, dismissing it as a baseless personal decision. Bichiock’s statement criticized Changson for failing to follow due constitutional procedures and claimed the expulsion lacks legal standing within the party framework.
Bichiock’s statement highlighted that his expulsion was not backed by any specific constitutional violations or discussions within the party’s leadership, accusing Changson of bypassing required investigative and disciplinary procedures. According to Bichiock, the FDP constitution mandates a formal investigation and disciplinary process overseen by the party’s Leadership Council before any expulsion can be made. Bichiock stated that none of these protocols were observed, rendering Changson’s actions “null and void.”
The conflict between the two leaders allegedly stems from a recent parliamentary committee reassignment by the Speaker of the National Assembly. Bichiock was reassigned from the Finance and Economic Planning Committee to the Energy and Dams Committee on September 24, 2024. Initially, he complied with Changson’s request to delay taking up the new role while the party leader contested the Speaker’s decision. However, after waiting over a month, Bichiock ultimately accepted the reassignment to avoid forfeiting the position under National Assembly regulations.
Bichiock alleges that Changson demanded his resignation from the Energy and Dams Committee to appoint a relative, Hon. Tut Gatkek Tut, to the role, threatening expulsion from both the party and Parliament if he did not comply. Bichiock described Changson’s grounds for expulsion as vague, with no specific evidence of wrongdoing. He accused Changson of constitutional violations and stated the party leadership would soon convene to address Changson’s “dictatorial” actions.
Bichiock urged FDP members to stay calm, assuring them the party would prioritize unity and transparency. He promised further updates within 24 hours following the leadership’s meeting