JUBA – The Sudanese Embassy in Juba denied reports that Khartoum has been conducting a deportation campaign against South Sudanese nationals, clarifying that recent security and administrative measures have been misunderstood.
The embassy statement follows the deportation of over 100 South Sudanese nationals this month. Renk County officials said the civilians were collected from work and in the streets, forced into buses and dumped at the border area of Renk County.
They event left behind their children and belongings, which they were later allowed to return and collect.
The diplomatic mission stated that recent police crackdowns were only aimed at regulating foreign presence and enhancing public security and stability.
It clarified that this was an ongoing campaign primarily aims to enhance compliance with applicable laws, particularly those related to regulations governing the entry and residence of foreigners and the provisions of the Labor Relations Regulation Law.
In a direct response to what it described as “malicious rumors,” the Sudanese embassy denied reports that South Sudanese citizens were being targeted as part of the security campaign, considering these allegations to be aimed at inciting strife and harming bilateral relations between the two peoples.
The statement affirmed the Sudanese government’s commitment to protecting the rights of southerners residing on its territory and providing them with the necessary facilities, within the framework of the historical relations between the two countries, which are based on mutual respect and cooperation.
The statement noted that the recent visit of South Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mande Samaya, to Port Sudan reflects the depth of bilateral relations between Khartoum and Juba and underscores both sides’ commitment to enhancing cooperation and understanding in various fields, particularly those related to the security and safety of citizens in both countries.
The embassy affirmed Sudan’s full commitment to protecting South Sudanese citizens residing on its territory and its continued coordination with Juba authorities to address individual cases that may arise during the implementation of regulatory measures.
