The Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), Edmund Yakani, has commended the South Sudanese government for initiating plans to send a delegation to the United States to address recent visa-related concerns.
In a statement extended to the media, Yakani urged the delegation to engage in a broader and more strategic dialogue that goes beyond visa issues, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between South Sudan and the U.S.
“I appreciate the government’s decision to send a delegation to the U.S. to engage over the misunderstanding. I urge the team to ensure a comprehensive dialogue with U.S. authorities to strengthen ties,” said Yakani.
He described the move as a positive step that opens a window for meaningful dialogue with Washington, adding that civil society actors had long advocated for such engagement.
“As civil society, we previously called on the government in Juba to urgently initiate dialogue with Washington to repair the diplomatic strain caused by the deportation incidents,” he stated.
Yakani emphasized that the talks should focus not only on the immediate visa concerns but also on broader issues including political transition, economic cooperation, and the creation of new opportunities for South Sudanese citizens.
“We need to see a robust and strategic relationship between Juba and Washington, DC, built on mutual interest and respect for the benefit of citizens in both countries,” he added.
He also acknowledged that, despite recent tensions, diplomatic relations between South Sudan and the U.S. remain intact, stressing the need to preserve and strengthen them.
“We are aware that the U.S. government remains friendly towards the people of South Sudan. It is essential to maintain and nurture this goodwill,” he said.
Earlier this week, the government announced plans to dispatch a high-level delegation to Washington, DC, to expedite the repatriation of 137 South Sudanese nationals and to enhance diplomatic relations following recent tensions involving Mr. Kintu Malual, which led to the revocation of multiple visas.
According to the office of the Vice President for Economic Cluster, Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel, the delegation will be led by the Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. Marial Dongrin Ater. It will also include the Governor of the Central Bank, Mr. Jonny Ohisa, and the Director General of Civil Registry, Nationality, Passport and Immigration, Gen. Elia Kosta. The team is expected to work with U.S. authorities to facilitate a legal and dignified return process.
However, the composition of the delegation has sparked criticism from members of the public who welcomed the initiative but questioned the exclusion of the Minister of Foreign Affairs—arguably the most appropriate figure to lead such a diplomatic mission and restore South Sudan’s image abroad.
