The Government of South Sudan has granted Mr. Makula Kintu, a deportee from the United States, permission to enter the country after he was twice denied entry at Juba International Airport on April 5 and 6, 2025.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the announcement today, citing the “spirit of existing friendly relations” with the United States as the driving force behind the decision.
The drama began earlier this month when Mr. Kintu, reportedly deported from the U.S., landed at Juba International Airport only to face rejection from immigration authorities twice.
His case quickly stirred quiet murmurs across diplomatic corridors as officials debated how to handle his re-entry under both national and international law.
Today, the government made its position clear that Makula Kintu will be allowed into South Sudan.
In an official press release, the Ministry confirmed that Juba has now instructed airport authorities to facilitate his entry “as early as tomorrow.”
The timing and tone of the statement are telling reflects a deliberate attempt by the Government of South Sudan to project diplomatic goodwill and assert control over its immigration protocols, especially involving nationals deported from Western countries.
“In the spirit of the existing friendly relations between South Sudan and the United States,” the press statement reads, “the Government has decided to grant Mr. Makula Kintu permission to enter the country.”
The government went a step further to affirm its commitment to facilitating the return of verified South Sudanese nationals deported from the United States.
This statement is likely to resonate far beyond Juba International Airport, especially among diaspora communities and human rights advocates watching how nations treat their own returning citizens.
Mr. Kintu’s arrival is expected tomorrow with the government having greenlit preparations for his reception. While there’s no word yet on whether he will face any further screening or restrictions, today’s statement sends a clear diplomatic message, South Sudan is willing to receive its own even when the circumstances are complex.
