On January 15, 2025, South Sudan called in Sudan’s ambassador over allegations of abuse against its citizens in Wad Madani, following disturbing reports and videos circulating on social media. The South Sudanese government demanded protective measures for its citizens, accountability for the perpetrators of the abuses, and access to support services. Diplomatic relations are imperative as South Sudan seeks to safeguard its nationals amid ongoing regional conflict.
On January 15, 2025, South Sudan summoned Sudan’s ambassador in Juba to express concern regarding alleged abuses against South Sudanese citizens in Wad Madani, a city recently recaptured by the Sudanese military. Social media reports included videos depicting the torture of at least one South Sudanese individual, highlighting a pattern of violence that reportedly affects Sudanese civilians as well, including incidents of extrajudicial killings.
During the diplomatic meeting, South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its dismay over recent incidents following the military’s takeover of Wad Madani. Undersecretary John Samuel Bwogo emphasized the need for Khartoum to implement promptly protective measures for foreign nationals, especially those from South Sudan residing in affected areas.
Reports received from the South Sudanese embassy in Port Sudan detailed the circumstances leading to the loss of innocent lives among their citizens. The South Sudanese authorities urged a cessation of actions that jeopardize lives, requested unimpeded access to consular services, and called for rigorous investigations into the reported abuses.
The Sudanese government has claimed the involvement of foreign mercenaries, including South Sudanese nationals, aligned with the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Numerous images and videos circulating online reportedly show individuals dressed in RSF uniforms, with many South Sudanese individuals either killed or captured amid the conflict in Al Jazirah.
Acknowledging the complexities of the ongoing unrest, South Sudan’s Foreign Ministry insisted on prioritizing the protection of innocent civilians, regardless of their nationality, in compliance with international standards. The South Sudanese government affirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its nationals amid the turmoil, pledging to leverage all available diplomatic channels to ensure their protection.
The diplomatic tensions between South Sudan and Sudan have escalated due to reported abuses of South Sudanese citizens amid ongoing conflicts in Sudan. The situation has been exacerbated by the civil war and military conflicts that have displaced and endangered many individuals in both countries. The historical context of South Sudan hosting large populations of its citizens in Sudan, as well as the existing political and military complexities, further informs the current diplomatic dynamics and responses between the two nations.
In summary, South Sudan’s formal summoning of Sudan’s ambassador reflects deep concerns over the alarming reports of abuses targeting its citizens in Wad Madani, particularly those involving torture and killings. The South Sudanese government is calling for immediate protection measures, comprehensive investigations, and accountability for the alleged incidents. As diplomatic relations remain crucial, South Sudan is determined to ensure the safety and rights of its nationals outside its borders.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
