Ambassador Jennifer Locetta, U.S. Alternative Representative for Special Political Affairs, has warned that South Sudan stands “on the brink of a renewed, large-scale civil war” and urged the country’s leaders to take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions and prioritize the welfare of their citizens.
Ambassador Locetta emphasized that political violence is rising sharply, First Vice President Riek Machar is under arrest, and the transitional government is failing to meet even the most basic needs of the South Sudanese people.
“The United States calls on political leaders to engage in direct dialogue and clearly renounce this violence,” she said during a United Nations Security Council briefing on Sudan and South Sudan.
Ambassador Locetta underscored the extensive support the international community has provided to South Sudan since its independence. The United States alone has contributed more than $9 billion in direct bilateral assistance, in addition to billions more through international and regional organizations. Yet, she noted, the transitional government continues to obstruct humanitarian efforts and hinder the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), from carrying out its mandated activities.
Rather than investing public revenue into essential services, Ambassador Locetta stated, South Sudanese leaders have prioritized personal enrichment. Despite receiving $25 billion in oil revenue since 2011, humanitarian needs in the country are at an unprecedented high.
She expressed concern that some international organizations have maintained a “business as usual” approach—seeking increased donations without holding the transitional government accountable for its actions. “It is particularly regrettable when UN agency representatives will not hold the host government accountable,” she added.
Ambassador Locetta called on the transitional government to:
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Use public revenue to pay salaries for public officials, including security personnel;
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Fund health, education, and other basic services;
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Cooperate fully with UNMISS and end all interference and harassment;
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Cease obstructing humanitarian assistance and civilian protection efforts.
She strongly condemned the recent seizure of food aid by government security forces and the ambush of UNMISS personnel in Western Equatoria, as well as the imposition of extralegal fees and politically motivated denials of aid.
“These indefensible actions, along with spreading violence, make South Sudan one of the most difficult and dangerous places in the world to deliver assistance,” Ambassador Locetta said.
She concluded by affirming that progress on anti-corruption, economic management, and public welfare is essential for restoring confidence in the transitional government and attracting long-term international support and investment.