The government of the United States is taking measures to impose visa restrictions on multiple individuals in South Sudan for undermining or impeding sustainable peace by engaging in corruption that fuels conflict in South Sudan.
Nearly thirteen years after declaring its independence, South Sudan remains a precariously fragile state beset by insecurity and poverty.
The US administration says, South Sudan’s leaders continually fail to exhibit the political will necessary to create the conditions for sustainable peace, democratic governance, the rule of law, and prosperity for the South Sudanese people.
“They have yet to demonstrate the political will to establish an environment conducive to free and fair elections taking place, as scheduled, in December 2024. Leaders of all parties share responsibility for this failure and for the elite capture of the nation’s riches, at the expense of the country’s peace and the general wellbeing,” the statement extended to Golden Times partly read.
Widespread corruption perpetuates the suffering and, directly and indirectly, supports conflict, thereby undermining the progress South Sudanese envisioned when they declared statehood, it added.
The United States government assures the people of South Sudan that it remains committed to supporting the long-unmet expectations for peace, democracy, human rights, and a government that uses public resources for the common good.
Under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, these individuals will be generally ineligible for visas to the United States.
Certain family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions.
These visa restrictions are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the South Sudanese people or the Government of South Sudan.
The decision to pursue visa restrictions reflects the commitment of the United States to support South Sudanese aspirations to combat corruption, strengthen democracy and the rule of law, and live in peace.
