The Government of South Sudan has apologised to the United States following a diplomatic dispute about the deportation of a wrongly identified South Sudanese national. Additionally, the government has committed to facilitating the return of South Sudanese citizens currently facing deportation from the US.
Clarification and reversal of decision
On 6 April, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the United States would revoke visas for South Sudanese passport holders. This decision followed South Sudan’s refusal to accept a deportee from the US.
Soon after, South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that the individual who arrived with South Sudanese travel documents under the name Nimeri Garang was actually a Congolese citizen. His true identity was Makula Kintu, and he was sent back to the US.
However, after diplomatic pressure, South Sudan reversed its decision. On 9 April, Kintu re-entered Juba after the US suspended visa issuance for South Sudanese nationals.
South Sudan plans high-level delegation to Washington
In a statement released on Saturday, Vice President Benjamin Bol Mel expressed gratitude towards President Donald J. Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their leadership. He acknowledged their commitment to enforcing US immigration policy.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused to the United States and reaffirm our desire to resolve the issue promptly and cooperatively,” the statement read.
The Vice President also stressed opportunities to enhance economic ties, particularly in trade and access to critical minerals.
“President Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit is committed to maintaining positive relations with the United States, especially in trade, investment, regional security, oil production, and cooperation on vital resources,” he added.
To resolve the ongoing issue, South Sudan will send a high-level delegation to Washington, D.C. The delegation will meet US officials to discuss the repatriation of approximately 137 South Sudanese nationals who are currently facing deportation orders.
The delegation will include Hon. Marial Dongrin Ater, Minister of Finance and Planning; Hon. Johnny Ohisa Damian, Governor of the Bank of South Sudan; and Mr Elia Kosta Faustino, Director General of the Directorate of Civil Registry, Nationality, Passport and Immigration (DCRNPI). They will work closely with the US Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security to ensure an efficient and dignified repatriation process.
Commitment to addressing the issue with urgency
The South Sudanese government has expressed concern over the situation and committed to resolving it swiftly. The incident with Mr. Kintu Makula, also known as Nemeri Garang, was regrettable and isolated. The government accepts full responsibility and recognises the importance of maintaining strong relations with the United States.
To prevent future issues, South Sudan has introduced stricter measures. These include improved verification procedures for deportees and better coordination between relevant government departments to ensure compliance with international agreements.
The South Sudanese government is determined to address this matter with the urgency it requires.
