Curfew Imposed as President Salva Kiir Calls for Calm Amid Rising Violence Against Sudanese Nationals in South Sudan

The violence comes against the backdrop of an ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where a civil war has displaced millions. Since April 2023, warring factions in Sudan have plunged the country into chaos, prompting a large influx of Sudanese refugees into South Sudan. This has created tensions in South Sudanese communities, culminating in violent confrontations over the past few days.

Jan 18, 2025 - 09:56
Jan 18, 2025 - 10:00
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Curfew Imposed as President Salva Kiir Calls for Calm Amid Rising Violence Against Sudanese Nationals in South Sudan
South Sudan Joint Security Forces Patrolling Different Streets to Avert any Tense Situation

Juba, South Sudan

President Salva Kiir of South Sudan has called for calm and urged citizens to refrain from taking the law into their own hands following a wave of attacks on businesses and homes owned by Sudanese nationals in South Sudan. The violence, which has resulted in the death of three people and injuries to seven others, has raised concerns about escalating tensions in the young nation.

The violence comes against the backdrop of an ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where a civil war has displaced millions. Since April 2023, warring factions in Sudan have plunged the country into chaos, prompting a large influx of Sudanese refugees into South Sudan. This has created tensions in South Sudanese communities, culminating in violent confrontations over the past few days.

In Juba and the north-western town of Aweil, three Sudanese-owned homes were set ablaze, and police reported gunshots throughout the night as security forces sought to contain the situation. The police also confirmed that 45 Sudanese traders in Juba had been rescued and are now under protection at a police station.

In a bid to curb the violence, South Sudan's Inspector General of Police, Abraham Manyuat Peter, announced a dusk-to-dawn curfew effective immediately. From 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time, movement is restricted to prevent further attacks on public and private property. Security forces have been deployed in affected areas, including Juba's Atlabara suburbs and Tonj town in Warrap State, to restore calm.

The attacks were reportedly sparked by recent viral footage purportedly showing Sudanese soldiers killing South Sudanese civilians in Wad Madani, Gezira State, Sudan. Rights groups confirmed that at least 13 people, including children, were killed in Wad Madani due to their ethnicity. President Kiir described the killings as "heinous and unacceptable" and called on Sudan's government to protect South Sudanese citizens and investigate the incident with international humanitarian organizations.

The footage has incited anger among South Sudanese citizens both at home and abroad, leading to retaliatory attacks on Sudanese-owned businesses in several cities, including Juba, Aweil, and Wau.

The violence has disrupted daily life and commerce in South Sudan. Businesses, including Juba's largest market, Konyo Konyo, remain closed as owners fear further attacks. Bread prices in the capital have risen by 17%, reflecting the economic strain caused by the unrest.

In Wau, the country's second-largest city, hundreds of youths attacked Sudanese-owned shops at Souk Jaw market. Police fired live bullets into the air to disperse the crowds. Similar incidents were reported in Tonj town, though details remain unverified. The violence has brought longstanding racial and ethnic tensions between South Sudan and Sudan back into focus. Darker-skinned South Sudanese people have long accused lighter-skinned Arab communities in Sudan of racism. These tensions date back to the civil war that ended in 2005, leading to South Sudan's secession in 2011.

Human rights groups have highlighted the systemic discrimination faced by black African communities in Sudan, particularly in regions like Darfur and Gezira. Slave raids and ethnic violence have left deep scars, and the recent attacks in Wad Madani have reignited these historical grievances.

In his address, President Kiir called for unity and restraint, emphasizing that violence against Sudanese refugees and residents only exacerbates the suffering caused by the conflict in Sudan. He urged South Sudanese citizens to "respect the rule of law" and warned against further attacks.

Kiir also appealed to Sudan’s government to ensure the safety of South Sudanese nationals trapped in Sudan, highlighting the need for international intervention to address the humanitarian crisis and investigate alleged atrocities.

The South Sudanese government has pledged to protect Sudanese nationals and their businesses. However, the situation remains volatile, with tensions high in Juba and other regions. As South Sudan grapples with its own challenges, including economic instability and internal displacement, ensuring the safety of all residents—regardless of nationality—will be critical in preventing further unrest.

The international community is urged to support both nations in addressing the root causes of these tensions, fostering reconciliation, and ensuring the protection of vulnerable communities on both sides of the border.

John Kusolo John Kusolo is a Ugandan Journalist, Sport fanatic, Tourist, Pastor, and Motivational Speaker. * Journalist: He works for Nile Chronicles News, NCN. * Passion: Known for his dedication to his work and strong motivation. * Ambitious: He sets goals for himself and strives to achieve them. * Enjoys challenges: He thrives in challenging situations.