Killing of South Sudanese citizens act of terrorism: Kiir
January 17, 2025 (JUBA) – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir on Friday condemned the recent killings of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan’s Al Jazira State, describing the move as an act of terrorism.
Kiir, in a state of the nation address, called the gruesome killings an inhumane act.
“These inhuman barbaric killings of innocent South Sudanese civilians allegedly committed by the Sudanese armed forces ignite difficult, sad, and emotional memories,” explained Kiir.
“These heinous acts are unacceptable and are truly comparable to terrorism in character,” he added.
The South Sudanese leader emphasized the importance of protecting Sudanese nationals who are living in South Sudan, but stressed the need to ensure those responsible for the killings face justice.
“It is crucial that we do not allow anger and emotions to cloud our judgment and turn against Sudanese brothers and sisters,” he stated.
Kiir said it is South Sudan’s responsibility to offer shelter and safety to those who fled the war in Sudan.
“Let them find comfort with you or around you. Let us trust in the process of peace and dialogue to resolve this crisis rather than citizens taking matters into their own hands,” he noted.
Emphasizing the historical relationship between the two countries, Kiir said he has instructed the Foreign Affairs ministry to ensure Sudan carries out thorough investigations into the killings.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs demands for an immediate and thorough investigation into the killing of defenseless civilians, participation of international human rights organizations, and for the Sudanese government to ensure transparency in such investigations,” he said.
Meanwhile Kiir has cautioned the country’s citizens against taking the law into their own hands.
He thus directed the Chief of Defense Forces, the Inspector General of Police, and the Director-General of the National Security Service to ensure Sudanese citizens in the country are protected.
“Ensure the protection of all Sudanese citizens within the territory of the Republic of South Sudan. I further direct all the organized forces not on duty to report to their units and barracks for further directives,” he emphasized.
Protests broke out in the South Sudanese capital, Juba and other parts of the country after videos on social media recently showed South Sudanese killed in Al Jazirah State capital, Wad Medani.
The protestors mainly targeted shops and businesses owned by Sudanese traders in South Sudan.
(ST)