Written by Lisa Murimi
South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has firmly denied widespread rumours claiming President Salva Kiir Mayardit has died, labelling the reports as false and malicious.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Ministry assured citizens, regional allies, and the international community that the president is “alive, well, and fully engaged in the service of the nation.”
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of South Sudan categorically and strongly denies the false and malicious reports circulating on social media,” the statement read.
“President Kiir continues to carry out his presidential duties with vigour, commitment, sound health, and complete fitness.”
The government condemned what it described as deliberate misinformation aimed at causing panic, confusion, and instability.
”The Ministry condemns in the strongest terms this deliberate spread of misinformation aimed at creating unnecessary panic, confusion, and instability. Such fake news only serves the interests of those who wish to undermine our nation’s sovereignty, hard-won peace, and progress,” the statement added.
The false claims emerged Wednesday night on social media, sparking concern in a nation already grappling with long-standing political tensions.
Since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011, South Sudan has faced prolonged internal conflict, largely fuelled by a power struggle between President Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar.
Although efforts at peace have been made, including Kenyan-led mediation, progress has been slow and often turbulent.
Kenyan President William Ruto recently appointed Raila Odinga as a special envoy to South Sudan, but diplomatic tensions flared after Odinga was reportedly denied access to Machar.
Despite ongoing challenges, the South Sudanese government insists it remains committed to peace and national development.
