South Sudan dispatches high-level delegation to US for urgent deportation and bilateral talks

South Sudan has announced the dispatch of a high-level delegation to Washington, D.C., to coordinate the repatriation of 137 South Sudanese nationals facing deportation and to bolster bilateral ties with the United States.

In a statement issued by the Office of the Vice President for the Economic Cluster, the government described the move as an effort to handle the matter with "the seriousness and urgency it deserves."

The delegation will be led by Finance Minister Marial Dongrin Ater, Central Bank Governor Johnny Ohisa Damian, and Elia Kosta Faustino, Director General of Civil Registry, Nationality, Passport and Immigration (DCRNPI).

The team is expected to work closely with the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security to ensure a "legal, orderly, and dignified return process."

The statement noted that the incident involving South Sudanese national, Kintu Makula, also identified as Nimeri Garang, was "regrettable and isolated," and confirmed that internal corrective measures have already been taken. "The Government of the Republic of South Sudan takes full responsibility for addressing this matter," it said.

There was tension last month when Juba denied entry to the Congolese deportee, Nimeri Garang, who was mistakenly certified as a South Sudanese national. This incident led the Trump administration to revoke all visas for South Sudanese passport holders, threatening further consequences.

Commitment to US immigration policy

The government expressed "respect and appreciation" to President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their "continued commitment to enforcing US immigration policy," and apologised for any inconvenience caused.

The communique also emphasised South Sudan's desire to preserve and deepen ties with the United States.

"President Salva Kiir Mayardit remains committed to maintaining warm, constructive, and positive engagement with the United States across all areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, regional security, oil production, and strategic cooperation on critical minerals," it read.

South Sudan further described the US as "a partner in securing access to strategic resources vital to both South Sudan and US economies and national security," and reaffirmed gratitude for the historic support of the US during the country's struggle for independence.

The announcement comes amid increasing diplomatic efforts by Juba to resolve tensions and reaffirm its international standing, particularly with strategic partners like Washington.

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