South Sudan’s government has firmly denied claims circulating on social media suggesting a diplomatic fallout with the United States, calling the reports “unfounded” and without any official basis.
In an official statement delivered Saturday evening, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayen stated unequivocally, “The Government of the Republic of South Sudan has neither expelled the United States Ambassador nor closed its embassy in Washington, DC.”
The ministry condemned the allegations as misinformation not originating from any legitimate source.
The clarification comes amid a backdrop of heightened diplomatic sensitivities following the dismissal of former Foreign Minister Ramadan Abdallah Goc.
His removal was reportedly linked to the case of Makula Kintu, an individual deported from the U.S. and twice turned away at Juba International Airport.
Initially misidentified as South Sudanese, Kintu was eventually granted entry “in order to preserve friendly relations with the United States,” following a temporary suspension of visa services by Washington.
On 9 April, President Salva Kiir appointed Mandese Maya Kumba—South Sudan’s former ambassador to China and then Deputy Foreign Minister—as the new head of foreign affairs.
In a symbolic effort to restore confidence, Kumba met on Saturday with U.S. Ambassador Michael J. Adler in Juba.
The meeting, described by the ministry as a courtesy visit, focused on reaffirming bilateral ties and exploring ways to de-escalate recent tensions.
The ministry confirmed that Ambassador Adler “remains fully accredited” and continues to enjoy the “full support” of South Sudanese authorities.
The country’s diplomatic mission in Washington is also said to be “fully operational.”
This diplomatic recalibration comes amid domestic political strains, including growing controversy over the continued detention of First Vice President Riek Machar—a development that has raised concerns among international partners about the country’s political stability.
