The controversy began during President Salva Kiir’s visit to Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, where Gen. Aleu urged residents to distance themselves from what he described as Garang Deng’s opposition to the government.
At the rally in Aweil Freedom Square, Aleu told the crowd: “Dear people of Mading Aweil, I urge you to distance yourselves from what Garang Deng Aguer is doing in relation to the government of President Salva Kiir.”
The remarks quickly drew criticism, with some residents arguing that the Interior Minister should have focused on security challenges and crime rather than local political disputes.
In response to the backlash, the Ministry of Interior issued a statement saying the minister’s comments had been misinterpreted.
“The Office of the Minister would like to clarify that Gen. Aleu was talking about separating political issues from community matters,” the statement said.
According to the ministry, Aleu’s message was intended to encourage young people to avoid political conflicts and instead focus on development, peace, and unity within the Aweil community.
“The Minister’s remarks were not meant to tell the people of Aweil to reject, abandon, or separate themselves from their community leader,” the statement added.
The ministry further explained that any political differences between President Kiir and Garang Deng Aguer should not be viewed as a conflict involving the wider community.
It said Aleu had stressed that “Amb. Garang and President Kiir know each other very well more than anyone” and that any disagreements between them should not be used to create divisions among the people or damage relations with the government.
The statement also emphasised that the Interior Minister “loves and respects the people of Aweil” and that he intended to promote peace, unity, and togetherness.
However, criticism has continued from some members of the public. One youth in Aweil accused the minister of interfering in local political matters instead of concentrating on his official responsibilities.
Political analyst Jok Madut Jok also weighed into the debate, defending Garang Deng Aguer and arguing that he has consistently advocated for the rule of law and peaceful engagement.
The controversy overshadowed some of the key announcements made during President Kiir’s visit, including a pledge to establish a university in Aweil.
In its statement, the Ministry of Interior called on the public, particularly young people, to avoid spreading misinformation and messages that could create unnecessary divisions, reaffirming its commitment to peace, unity, and harmony across South Sudan.
