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South Sudan to Permit Entry of Deported Man Amidst US Visa Dispute
In a significant reversal aimed at de-escalating a burgeoning visa row with the United States, South Sudan has declared it will now permit entry to a man deported from the US. This decision follows the recent announcement by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the revocation of US visas for all South Sudanese citizens in response to South Sudan’s initial refusal to accept the return of its nationals facing deportation.
Initial Refusal and US Visa Restrictions
The dispute originated when the US, under its immigration enforcement policies, sought to deport an individual it identified as a South Sudanese citizen. South Sudan’s foreign ministry initially reacted by stating that the deportation was based on incorrect identification, claiming the individual was not South Sudanese.
South Sudan U-Turns to Resolve Diplomatic Tension
However, in a move to mend international relations and ease tensions, the South Sudanese government has softened its stance. “In the spirit of friendly relations,” the government announced it would allow the deported man to enter the country. This change in position is viewed as an attempt to resolve the diplomatic impasse triggered by the visa restrictions.
Deported Individual Identified as Congolese National
The government further clarified that the deported man has been identified as a national of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite this, South Sudan stated it would facilitate his arrival in Juba, the capital city, possibly as early as Wednesday.
Commitment to Accepting Verified Nationals
South Sudan’s foreign ministry affirmed its commitment to supporting the repatriation of its “verified nationals” who are slated for deportation from the US. This statement suggests a willingness to cooperate with the US on matters of deportation, provided the individuals are confirmed to be South Sudanese citizens.
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US Measures and Justification
The US decision to revoke visas for all South Sudanese passport holders marked an unprecedented step. Secretary of State Rubio cited “the failure of South Sudan’s transitional government to accept the return of its repatriated citizens in a timely manner” as the reason for the stringent measures. He also indicated a readiness to reconsider these actions should South Sudan demonstrate full cooperation.
South Sudan Expresses Regret Over Blanket Visa Ban
In response to the blanket visa ban, South Sudan’s foreign ministry expressed “deep regret.” They characterized the US action as a disproportionate measure based on “an isolated incident involving misrepresentation” concerning an individual they maintain is not a South Sudanese national but a Congolese citizen who was subsequently returned to the US. South Sudan claims to have shared supporting evidence with US officials.
US Dismisses South Sudan’s Explanation
However, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau countered South Sudan’s explanation, deeming it “legally irrelevant.” Landau asserted that the South Sudanese embassy in Washington had “certified this particular individual as one of their nationals,” making their current denial untenable.
US Official Emphasizes Embassy’s Certification
Landau further emphasized that it is “unacceptable and irresponsible” for the South Sudanese government to question the determinations made by their own embassy. This underscores the US stance that South Sudan was responsible for accepting the deported individual based on its embassy’s initial verification.
Rising Tensions within South Sudan
This diplomatic friction occurs amid escalating concerns about potential renewed civil conflict in South Sudan. Recent events, including the reported house arrest of First Vice-President Riek Machar following accusations from President Salva Kiir of inciting rebellion, have heightened instability.
US Concerns Over South Sudan Instability
The US has previously signaled its apprehension regarding the deteriorating situation in South Sudan. Last month, the US ordered the evacuation of non-essential personnel from its embassy in South Sudan as fighting erupted, threatening the fragile peace agreement established in 2018 to end the prior five-year civil war.
Temporary Protected Status for South Sudanese in the US
It is noteworthy that South Sudanese individuals residing in the US were previously beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status (TPS). TPS granted them the legal right to remain in the US for a designated period. The TPS designation for South Sudanese nationals in the US was scheduled to expire on May 3rd.