Russia to Open Embassy in Juba: A New Chapter in South Sudan–Russia Relations

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‎ ‎In a significant diplomatic move, the Russian Federation is preparing to open its embassy in South Sudan between September and October 2025, marking a major milestone in the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations. ‎ ‎The news was confirmed by South Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Chol Tong Mayay, during a farewell event for a South Sudanese ICT delegation that recently attended the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF 2025). ‎ ‎A Long-Awaited Diplomatic Presence ‎The planned opening of a Russian embassy in Juba is seen as a long-overdue development in South Sudan-Russia relations.  ‎ ‎Since South Sudan gained independence in 2011, Russia has maintained diplomatic accreditation to Juba from its embassy in Khartoum.  ‎ ‎The establishment of a permanent diplomatic mission in the South Sudanese capital is expected to significantly boost cooperation, streamline consular services, and facilitate more direct political, economic, and cultural exchanges....

Akobo Commissioner Rejects Suspension, Accuses Jonglei Governor of Political Targeting

 

Puok Nyang Tutjiek, the Commissioner of Akobo County in Jonglei State


‎Tensions have flared in Jonglei State after the Commissioner of Akobo County, Puok Nyang Tutjiek, rejected his suspension issued by Governor Dr. Riek Gai Kok, calling it a politically motivated move aimed at silencing his support for SPLM-IO leader Dr. Riek Machar.

‎Tutjiek, a senior SPLM-IO official, was suspended over the weekend following accusations by the governor that he violated administrative procedures by traveling to neighboring Ethiopia without official clearance and for publicly demanding Machar’s release from house arrest.

‎In a strong response, Commissioner Tutjiek insisted that his trip had been approved by the former deputy governor and defended his right to call for the release of his party chairman. “Dr. Riek Machar is my leader. I have the right to speak up for him,” he said.

‎He further questioned the legality of the suspension, saying the governor lacked the authority to remove him without due process and consultation with SPLM-IO leadership. “This is a clear attempt to intimidate us politically. It will not work,” Tutjiek declared.

‎The move has drawn concern from civil society. Ter Manyang Gatwech, a prominent activist, warned that the suspension could worsen tensions in Jonglei and provoke unrest among the Lou Nuer community, which has remained a stronghold of the SPLM-IO since the outbreak of the 2013 conflict.

‎This unfolding dispute highlights the fragile state of South Sudan’s unity government. While formed in 2020 under the revitalized peace agreement, many critical provisions including the integration of forces and preparations for elections remain stalled. The political standoff between the SPLM and SPLM-IO continues to challenge the peace process.

‎As the situation develops, eyes remain on whether national leadership will intervene to resolve the political dispute and prevent further instability in Jonglei.

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