Visa fraud carries serious consequences, warns U.S. Embassy

The United States Embassy in South Sudan has issued a stern warning about visa fraud, emphasizing its severe legal repercussions for offenders in the U.S. In a statement obtained by Standard Zone News, the embassy underscored the high security of U.S. visas, asserting that any attempt to counterfeit them would be detected. “The U.S. visa […]
Yakani calls for investigation into Nasir Conflict, citing human rights violations

Civil society activist Edmund Yakani has called for an independent commission to investigate the Nasir conflict and ensure that those responsible are held accountable for human rights violations. According to a statement extended to the media, Yakani, the Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), expressed concern over a series of videos […]
DR Congo bans ex-President Kabila’s party, accuses him of rebel ties

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially banned the political party of former President Joseph Kabila, the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), accusing him of supporting the M23 rebel group in the country’s volatile eastern region. This move follows Kabila’s recent return to the DRC after a two-year absence, during which he […]
Election in jeopardy: Activist calls for halt to violence before 2026 deadline

A civil society activist has urged the government and parties to the peace agreement to intensify efforts in ending ongoing violence across the country to avoid another extension of the transitional period beyond 2026. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), called on the government to address renewed violence in […]
Warrap Governor rejects claims of forged presidential decrees

Warrap State Governor Magok Magok Deng has strongly refuted circulating allegations that recent presidential decrees reshuffling state officials were forged, asserting that all changes were legitimate and approved by President Salva Kiir. In a press statement released Friday, the governor’s press secretary, Makor Mangok, addressed online misinformation that claimed the decrees read on state broadcaster […]
Easter gift of peace: Civil society urges SSPDF, White Army to embrace ceasefire

As Christians across South Sudan mark Easter, a leading civil society organization has called on the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army to offer a lasting gift of peace by declaring a ceasefire and embracing dialogue. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), appealed to both […]
Dialogue over division: CEPO reacts to UN warning on South Sudan

The Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) has echoed concerns raised by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), warning that South Sudan’s fragile political transition is at risk if leaders fail to embrace peaceful dialogue. In a statement on Friday, CEPO Executive Director Mr. Edmund Yakani said the country is at a critical turning point, […]
South Sudan’s Security Situation is Stable, President Kiir Assures Citizens

President Salva Kiir has assured the citizens of South Sudan that the country’s security situation remains stable, reaffirming his government’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability nationwide. According to a statement from the Office of the President, Kiir gave the assurance following a meeting with SPLM Secretary General Dr. James Wani Igga on Thursday. The […]
UNMISS calls for Dr. Machar’s release and de-escalation of Nasir conflict

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has urged the Security Council to intervene in securing the release of Dr. Riek Machar, along with other detained military and civilian officials, and to de-escalate the ongoing conflict in Nasir, Upper Nile State. Mr. Nicholas Haysom, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, highlighted […]
Sub-national violence leaves civilians in crisis: UNMISS sounds alarm

The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has raised urgent concerns about the devastating impact of sub-national violence on civilians in South Sudan. In a statement obtained by Standard Zone News, UNMISS emphasized that community-based militias are the leading perpetrators of civilian harm, accounting for 79 percent of victims in violent incidents. Warrap State […]