Kiir returns to Juba, dismissing health speculations

JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit arrived back in the capital Juba on Saturday, quelling the rumors surrounding his health.

Speculations had circulated about his alleged health deterioration, prompting reports of his supposed travel to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment.

The presidency issued a statement announcing Kiir’s return to the country, accompanied by his delegation, following a week-long trip that began on November 30, 2023, for the UN Climate Summit, COP28, held in Dubai, UAE.

“President Kiir and his delegation returned to Juba after their participation in the COP28 Summit in Dubai,” the presidency’s statement, seen by Sudans Post, affirmed.

While at the summit in the UAE, where global leaders gathered, Kiir’s interactions were limited.

Contrary to earlier expectations of meetings with multiple world leaders, he was observed meeting solely with former Sudanese Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok.

Their discussion revolved around ongoing initiatives aimed at resolving the deadly conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Joseph Bakasoro, the Minister of Presidential Affairs, asserted that Kiir had indeed met other heads of state during the summit, although these encounters were not widely publicized, except for the meeting with the Sudanese Prime Minister.

Kiir’s return to Juba contrasts with the recent rumors surrounding his health, alleging his departure to Saudi Arabia from the UAE for medical attention.

Reports inaccurately pointed to Saudi Arabia as a destination, despite the UAE having more advanced medical facilities.