South Sudan Reverses Deportee Entry Decision Following US Visa Revocation

South Sudanese authorities have decided to permit Congolese national Makula Kintu entry into the country. This decision comes after an initial refusal led the United States to revoke visas for all South Sudanese citizens. Apuk Ayuel Mayen, spokesperson for the foreign affairs ministry, stated that this move aims to preserve amicable relations between South Sudan and the US.

US Visa Revocation

Last Friday, officials denied Kintu entry, citing his use of travel documents belonging to a South Sudanese citizen, Nimeri Garang. Following this, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the revocation of visas for South Sudanese citizens. The US cited South Sudan's failure to accept deported citizens promptly as the reason for this action.

On Monday, South Sudanese officials criticised the US decision as unjust. They argued that Kintu's situation was unique and that they had cooperated with other deportation cases. The US indicated it might reconsider its decision if South Sudan fully cooperates with deportations.

Local Advocacy Support

Edmund Yakani, who leads the Community Empowerment for Progress Organisation, praised the government's choice to admit Kintu. He emphasised that issues concerning deportee identities should be resolved legally without negatively impacting all South Sudanese citizens.

Political Tensions in South Sudan

South Sudan's political environment remains unstable, with recent clashes between government forces and opposition groups heightening tensions. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently urged global leaders to prevent South Sudan from descending into another civil war.

The decision to allow Kintu entry reflects efforts to maintain diplomatic ties amid these challenges. The situation underscores the complexities of international relations and immigration policies affecting both nations.