Last week, a significant diplomatic incident unfolded involving Makula Kintu, a citizen of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), who found himself at the center of a controversy that has strained relations between South Sudan and the United States. Kintu’s arrival in Juba International Airport on April 9, 2025, was marked by confusion and tension, particularly regarding his identity and the legitimacy of his travel documents.
The events began when Kintu attempted to enter South Sudan on April 5 and 6, presenting a South Sudanese Travel Document under the name “Nimeri Garang.” South Sudanese authorities quickly grew suspicious, prompting an investigation that revealed Kintu’s true identity. Immigration officials in South Sudan asserted that Kintu was indeed a Congolese citizen, born on April 2, 1977, in North Kivu province, a region known for its complex socio-political dynamics.
Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayen, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, confirmed to the media in Juba that Kintu had officially arrived at the airport at 1:30 p.m. This announcement was crucial, not only in terms of sharing Kintu’s arrival details but also to clarify the posture of the South Sudanese government regarding his entry. His reception at the airport included notable figures such as the Director General of Immigration and diplomatic staff from the U.S. Embassy, underscoring the international dimension of the situation.
Upon his arrival in Juba, Kintu was subjected to an immigration interview, where he identified himself as a member of the Ema tribe from the DRC. During this interview, Kintu claimed that someone had forcibly sent him to South Sudan, further complicating the narrative surrounding his entry. The mention of being coerced raised questions about the broader human migration issues prevalent in the region, where many individuals find themselves in precarious situations due to conflict and instability.
To bolster their position, South Sudanese officials indicated they had shared video evidence of Kintu’s immigration interview with U.S. representatives. This material was reportedly sent to both the U.S. Ambassador in Juba and the State Department in Washington, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations against Kintu and South Sudan’s intent to clarify the situation diplomatically.
The U.S. response to Kintu’s situation has been closely monitored, given the potential implications for U.S.-South Sudan relations. The incident has not only illuminated issues of identity verification and immigration processes but also spotlighted the geopolitical sensitivities that arise from individual cases in tumultuous regions. Johnson’s arrival in Juba has thus emerged as a defining moment, demonstrating how the actions of one person can ripple through the delicate fabric of international diplomacy.
This unfolding drama invites observers to reflect on the broader implications of migration, identity, and international relations, especially in regions where historical grievances and modern conflicts converge. As the situation develops, the focus remains on how diplomatic channels will navigate the complexities presented by Kintu’s case, and what this means for both South Sudan and its interactions with the U.S.
