THE AFRICA TIMES | JUBA – The government of South Sudan refutes allegations of obstructing the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). These allegations surfaced during a planned rotation of peacekeeping troops. The United States has issued a strong warning regarding the alleged interference.
Government Response to Obstruction Allegations
South Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Monday Semaya Kumba, addressed the claims in a recent press conference. He stated that the 17 points submitted to UNMISS were not conditions. Rather, they represented legitimate concerns and positions of the government.
Kumba emphasized that the points aimed to facilitate discussion, not impede operations. Moreover, Kumba said that the government consulted extensively with UNMISS officials. These consultations included Under-Secretary-General Jane Perry-Lafoye.
Consultations and Coordination
The consultations coordinated closely on implementing the contingency plan for troop rotations. Kumba clarified the meaning of the 17 points, ultimately reaching an agreement to proceed in an orderly manner. The goal, he stressed, was to implement the contingency plan efficiently.
According to the foreign ministry, troop rotations are underway. Approximately 1,143 troops from Ghana, Nepal, Bangladesh, and India have departed Juba. These departures occurred under the approved schedule.
A further 2,497 troops are scheduled to rotate between December 15, 2025, and January 7, 2026. Kumba affirmed that the initial departures occurred without any obstacles.
Clarification on Nepalese Rotation Flight
Kumba addressed reports of an issue with a recent Nepalese rotation flight. He attributed the problem to a misunderstanding regarding discrepancies in troop numbers at Juba International Airport. Specifically, 205 troops were present instead of the approved 150.
UNMISS decided not to allow the 150 troops to depart on the scheduled flight. As a result, the aircraft departed without any peacekeepers. Kumba emphasized that this decision by UNMISS led to the flight disruption. He stated strongly that it is unfair to accuse South Sudan of blocking the process.
He described the government’s proposed solution to reschedule the additional troops. Yet, UNMISS decided to cancel the flight entirely. Kumba lamented, noting the situation is being wrongly attributed to South Sudan.
U.S. Warning and Potential Aid Cuts
The statements from South Sudan come amid a sharp warning from the United States. This warning addresses alleged fees on humanitarian shipments and interference with UN peacekeeping operations.
Washington contends such actions violate international obligations. Consequently, these violations could trigger reductions in U.S. foreign assistance. The U.S. issued a strong ultimatum, threatening a comprehensive review of foreign aid.
The U.S. accused leaders of fueling insecurity and exploiting humanitarian aid. It criticized a “predatory” approach to governance within South Sudan.
U.S. Aid and South Sudan’s Oil Revenue
Since 2011, the U.S. has provided over $9.5 billion in aid to South Sudan. Conversely, South Sudan earned $25 billion in oil revenue. This revenue, according to the U.S., was not used to support citizens or improve services.
The U.S. urged the transitional government to become a partner in aiding its people. They hope to see the government stop obstructing ongoing efforts.
South Sudan maintains its commitment to working alongside UNMISS. It says all troop movements adhere to approved schedules. The government states that it addresses any misunderstandings through joint technical committees. These committees seek to resolve operational issues.
