The Government of South Sudan has announced its decision to grant entry to Makula Kintu, an individual of Congolese decent deported from the United States, after he was initially denied entry at Juba International Airport on April 5 and 6, 2025.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has issued a press statement confirming the decision, emphasizing the country’s commitment to maintaining friendly relations with the United States.
According to the statement, the government has instructed authorities at Juba International Airport to facilitate Mr. Kintu’s arrival as early as April 9.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Apuk Ayuel stated that the decision to grant Kintu asylum was made “in the spirit of the existence of friendly relations between South Sudan and the United States.” The government has instructed authorities at Juba International Airport to facilitate Kintu’s entry into the country.
Kintu had been deported from the United States and arrived at Juba International Airport last week. However, he was initially denied entry into South Sudan for unspecified reasons, prompting further deliberations by the government.
US Visa Revocation
The decision follows the United States’ revocation of all visas for South Sudanese citizens and a halt to new visa issuances. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the move, accusing Juba of non-cooperation in repatriating its citizens.
Rubio stated that the U.S. State Department is “revoking all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders and preventing the issuance of any further visas to stop entry.” This marks the first time the U.S. has targeted an entire country’s passport holders since President Donald Trump resumed office in January 2025, building on his platform of stricter immigration policies.
The Ministry’s decision to allow his entry comes after careful consideration of the circumstances and in recognition of the strong bilateral ties between South Sudan and the United States.
The Ministry reiterated South Sudan’s commitment to facilitating the return of verified South Sudanese nationals deported from abroad. The government emphasized its dedication to ensuring that such processes are handled efficiently and in accordance with international standards.
This development highlights South Sudan’s efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations with key international partners while addressing complex issues surrounding deportation and repatriation.
The facilitation of Mr. Kintu’s entry underscores the government’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation on sensitive matters involving its citizens abroad.
As instructed by the Ministry, airport authorities in Juba are now preparing for Mr. Kintu’s arrival, marking a resolution to this particular case while setting a precedent for future repatriation efforts.
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