US imposes sanctions on South Sudan

By Agencies

The United States Department of State on Tuesday announced targeted visa restrictions for individuals involved in undermining peace in South Sudan.

A press statement signed by Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, the Department’s spokesperson, did not immediately name the targeted individuals, but said the Transitional Government of South Sudan has, for years, impeded implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), signed during President Trump’s first term, leaving the country on the brink of a return to all-out war.

The U.S. State Department also said embezzlement of public funds in South Sudan has been documented by several reputable bodies.

“Numerous well-respected investigative bodies have documented how corrupt officials and entities, including Crawford Capital, Ltd., have siphoned money from South Sudan’s treasury and stolen foreign assistance funds intended to support the South Sudanese people,” the statement reads in part. “The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), controlled by President Salva Kiir, has conducted a military offensive in northern Jonglei State that has displaced 300,000 people and created the conditions for a potential famine in large parts of South Sudan.”

The statement added that there have also been credible reports of human rights violations and abuses, and ethnically motivated killings of the Nuer people.

“Today, pursuant to authority under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, Secretary Rubio is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on members of South Sudan’s transitional government,” the statement said. “These individuals have undermined peace in South Sudan, including by impeding the ceasefire agreement and engaging in corruption that has fueled the conflict.”

The United States said it will continue to stand with the South Sudanese people, who want to live in peace and dignity.

“We will continue to use all tools available to expose and promote accountability for members of the transitional government, SSPDF officials, and other individuals who steal from the South Sudanese people and threaten peace,” the statement concluded.

The sanctions come days after a visit to Juba by Africa Bureau Senior Official Nick Checker, who urged South Sudanese leaders to take urgent steps to restore peace, improve governance, and strengthen cooperation on security and immigration issues.

The measures also come amid growing criticism of the government’s move to unilaterally amend the 2018 peace agreement without the participation of key stakeholders, especially the opposition group led by suspended First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar, who is currently detained and facing treason charges.