By Ollus Ndomu
South Sudan on Monday condemned the United States’ decision to revoke visas for all South Sudanese nationals, calling the move unjust and rooted in mistaken identity. The government said the sweeping restriction unfairly punishes an entire population over a single disputed deportation case.
The visa ban, announced by the U.S. State Department under Secretary Marco Rubio, follows Washington’s accusation that Juba has refused to cooperate in accepting repatriated citizens. It marks the first blanket visa restriction imposed on a country since President Donald Trump returned to office.
In a statement, South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the case at the center of the dispute involved a Congolese national who was wrongly identified as South Sudanese. The individual, officials say, has since been returned to U.S. custody for further processing.
“We find this decision deeply regrettable and based on incorrect information,” the statement read. “South Sudan remains committed to international cooperation and responsible migration policies.”
The U.S. State Department has not publicly commented on the details of the case but said the restriction will remain in effect until South Sudan demonstrates full cooperation in accepting its deported citizens.
Analysts warn the move could strain relations between Juba and Washington at a time when South Sudan is still grappling with a fragile peace process, humanitarian crises, and economic instability. The visa freeze is expected to affect students, business travelers, and those seeking medical treatment or family reunification in the United States.
