The United States announced today that it is imposing visa restrictions on multiple individuals responsible for undermining and impeding sustainable peace in South Sudan. These individuals are being held accountable for their roles in perpetuating the ongoing challenges faced by the South Sudanese people, including corruption, human rights violations, and the failure to achieve lasting peace.
The U.S. Department of State’s decision underscores the ongoing frustration with the South Sudanese leadership’s failure to use the nation’s resources for the benefit of its citizens. Despite the country’s wealth, including substantial oil reserves, many South Sudanese continue to face extreme poverty while political elites continue to capture and mismanage public resources. The visa restrictions target individuals involved in corruption, human rights abuses, and other actions that perpetuate the country’s instability.
Accountability for the Undermining of Peace
The U.S. government has been clear in its condemnation of South Sudan’s leadership for failing to protect its citizens from widespread abuses, including violations of civil and political rights. This inaction has contributed to the continued suffering of the South Sudanese people, with violence, displacement, and insecurity still prevalent across much of the country.
In particular, the U.S. highlighted the government’s inability to facilitate the much-anticipated elections that were meant to mark a new chapter in South Sudan’s democratic transition. While South Sudanese citizens were expected to head to the polls this week for the country’s first election since independence, the long-awaited vote has once again been delayed, depriving the people of their right to self-determination and free elections. This latest postponement underscores the government’s failure to follow through on promises of a peaceful and democratic transition.
A Missed Opportunity for Democracy
The announcement comes at a poignant time, as South Sudanese citizens had hoped that this election would be a turning point for their young nation. Instead, the government’s decision to delay the election is yet another in a series of broken promises. It represents a setback for the people of South Sudan, who continue to strive for peace, justice, and democratic governance despite decades of conflict.
Today’s U.S. actions are part of an ongoing effort to hold accountable those who continue to frustrate the aspirations of the South Sudanese people. The United States has consistently called for South Sudan’s leadership to honor its commitments to democracy, rule of law, and human rights. The restrictions send a message that individuals responsible for undermining these principles will face consequences.
Third Round of Visa Restrictions
This latest round of visa restrictions marks the third such action taken by the U.S. government since 2019, under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This policy was specifically designed to target individuals complicit in obstructing peace and the pursuit of democracy in South Sudan. The visa restrictions extend to the family members of those responsible for these actions, aiming to ensure that those who perpetuate instability in South Sudan are held accountable on the international stage.
“The United States will continue to stand with the people of South Sudan and their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous future,” said Matthew Miller, U.S. Department of State Spokesperson. “Our actions today demonstrate our unwavering commitment to promoting accountability and the rule of law in South Sudan.”
U.S. Support for the People of South Sudan
While the U.S. government has taken firm steps to hold individuals accountable, it also reiterated its ongoing support for the people of South Sudan. The United States remains committed to helping South Sudan build the institutions and governance structures necessary to support long-term peace and stability. However, it is clear that for progress to occur, South Sudan’s leaders must demonstrate a genuine commitment to ending corruption, improving governance, and prioritizing the well-being of their citizens.
The United States continues to advocate for a sustainable and inclusive peace process in South Sudan, one that includes all voices, respects human rights, and adheres to international norms. The U.S. also remains dedicated to supporting humanitarian assistance efforts in South Sudan, where millions continue to rely on international aid.
A Call for Change
The U.S. government’s actions today reinforce the growing call for reform in South Sudan. The South Sudanese people have endured too much suffering over the past decade, and they deserve a future that is free from violence, corruption, and impunity. For South Sudan to move forward, it is essential that its leadership take concrete steps to fulfill the promises of peace and democracy made to its citizens.
The United States will continue to work with like-minded partners to hold those who undermine peace in South Sudan accountable, and to support the country’s journey toward a brighter future for all its people.