South Sudan condemns ‘disrespectful’ Sudanese statements

JUBA – South Sudan’s ministry of foreign affairs and international cooperation on Tuesday condemned what it described as a “disrespectful and menacing” statement by the Sudanese government regarding South Sudanese fighting alongside the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Speaking at a news conference in Juba, Amb. Apuk Ayuel Mayen, the Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, urged the Sudanese government to refrain from making unfounded accusations that could jeopardize bilateral relations and regional stability.

“We strongly condemn any threatening and disrespectful approach to addressing concerns and remain committed to amicable dialogue and constructive political and diplomatic exchanges,” Mayen said.

“On the other hand, we are also ready to continue addressing threats and disrespectful approaches, if any, conscientiously and promptly to safeguard South Sudan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and national interest,” she added.

Mayen emphasized that South Sudan will continue working with its Sudanese counterparts to hold accountable those responsible for the “horrific and terrible slaughter of defenseless civilians” in Wad Medani.

“Such transparent accountability will undoubtedly serve the interests of both Sudan and South Sudan by preventing further tragic and brutal killings, as witnessed in Wad Medani and its surroundings,” she said.

She reaffirmed South Sudan’s commitment and responsibility to protect Sudanese citizens residing in South Sudan and their properties, as demonstrated during recent tensions.

“We remain committed to advancing our existing bilateral relations with Sudan across various fields of cooperation and reiterate our assurance to address any misunderstandings or concerns promptly and appropriately,” she said.

She also urged Sudanese authorities to protect the security and welfare of South Sudanese citizens residing in Sudan.

Mayen stated that on Jan. 23, 2025, the Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement that misrepresented South Sudan’s position and reiterated comments made by General Yasser Al-Atta at the recent UN Security Council Open Debate on African-Led and Development-Focused Counter Terrorism in New York.

“South Sudan rejects the accusations contained in that statement as unfounded,” she said.

Media sources on Jan. 20, 2025, showed video footage of General Yasser Al-Atta, the Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and member of the Transitional Sovereign Council, speaking to troops from an undisclosed location and claiming that 65 percent of the RSF fighters in Sudan are South Sudanese nationals.

Al-Atta also delivered conflicting messages, expressing trust in President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the South Sudanese government while simultaneously accusing the country of doing little to prevent South Sudanese citizens from joining the RSF.