“Advance the country’s foreign policy and project a positive international image,” Kiir instructed, as quoted by the presidential press unit. The oath was administered by Chief Justice Chan Reec Madut.
President Kiir praised Semaya’s extensive diplomatic experience, expressing confidence in his ability to represent South Sudan effectively on the global stage. In response, Semaya thanked the president for the opportunity and vowed to collaborate with ministry colleagues to bolster the nation’s diplomatic relations.
As foreign minister, Semaya is tasked with overseeing South Sudan’s diplomatic operations, representing the country in regional and international forums, and promoting its interests abroad.
Semaya’s appointment follows a presidential decree announced Wednesday on the state-run South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC). President Kiir dismissed former Foreign Minister Ramadan M. Abdallah Goc, appointing him to parliament, and elevated Semaya from deputy minister to foreign minister. No reasons were provided for the changes.
The reshuffle comes amid a recent diplomatic spat between Juba and Washington over the repatriation of South Sudanese citizens. Tensions arose when South Sudanese authorities initially barred the entry of Makula Kintu, a Congolese national deported to Juba after allegedly impersonating a South Sudanese citizen, Nimeri Garang.
To ease the friction, South Sudan reversed its decision. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, “In the spirit of friendly relations with the United States, the government has granted Mr. Makula Kintu permission to enter the country.” The ministry instructed authorities at Juba International Airport to facilitate Kintu’s arrival promptly.
The dispute prompted a strong reaction from the United States. On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the immediate revocation of visas for all South Sudanese passport holders, citing South Sudan’s failure to accept repatriated citizens in a timely manner. Rubio also warned that South Sudanese citizens would be blocked at U.S. ports of entry.
Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau criticized South Sudanese officials for questioning their own embassy’s certification of repatriated individuals. “It is unacceptable for foreign governments to relitigate eligibility after certification,” Landau said. “A workable repatriation system is at stake, and we hope South Sudan will meet its obligations to prevent further escalation.”
Some South Sudanese citizens affected by the U.S. visa revocation urged the U.S. administration to reconsider, arguing that civilians should not be punished for government errors. They described the decision as unfair and called for swift action to reverse it.
As Ambassador Semaya steps into his new role, his ability to navigate complex diplomatic challenges and restore South Sudan’s international standing will be closely watched.
