South Sudan has reversed its previous stance and agreed to accept Makula Kintu, a citizen of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), into the country following increasing pressure from the US.
The decision marks the latest development in a diplomatic impasse that began when Kintu was denied entry at Juba International Airport on April 5 and 6 following his deportation from the US.
Speaking at an unscheduled press conference on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayen announced the government’s change of stance, citing the strong ties between Juba and Washington.
“In keeping with the spirit of the existing friendly relations between South Sudan and the United States, the Government of the Republic of South Sudan has decided to grant Mr. Makula Kintu permission to enter the country,” he said. “The relevant authorities at Juba International Airport have been instructed to facilitate his arrival as early as tomorrow.”
Ambassador Ayuel also reiterated South Sudan’s commitment to cooperate with the United States in the return of verified South Sudanese citizens awaiting deportation.