...a Moslem country located in the Horn of Africa. It is noted for its affinity for rule by ex- or current generals, its holy men, and for the oppression of the native Afro population by its Arab conquerors. South Sudan, populated mostly by the natives, split off from Sudan proper, which left North and South Darfur to be oppressed by the guys with turbans...'s government on Thursday denied that President Salva Kiir had died, following online speculation.
The long-serving 73-year-old leader has long been dogged by rumours of ill health.
But he has been pictured in recent months meeting visiting dignitaries and ordering a series of dramatic government reshuffles.
He has also moved decisively against his long-time rival and the current first vice-president, Riek Machar, placing him under house arrest and detaining several of his allies.
Late Wednesday, reports began emerging on social media, claiming that Kiir had, in the words of one Kenyan personality, ''kicked the bucket.''
"He's pining for the Sudanese fjords"
South Sudan's foreign ministry issued a statement the following day, saying it ''categorically and strongly denies the false and malicious reports circulating on social media claiming that His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit has passed away.''
The posts were ''entirely baseless and irresponsible rumours fabricated by enemies of peace, development, nation building, and stability,'' it added.
It comes as South Sudan faces another bout of insecurity, with festivities between forces aligned with Kiir and Machar breaking out in several areas around the country, raising fears of renewed civil war.
Related:
Salva Kiir 03/19/2025 South Sudan confirms presence of Ugandan troops, citing military pact - Sudan Tribune
Salva Kiir 09/16/2024 UNESCO condemns looting of Sudan National Museum
Salva Kiir 06/17/2024 Security Council President calls for end to Sudan conflict
Salva Kiir 03/19/2025 South Sudan confirms presence of Ugandan troops, citing military pact - Sudan Tribune
Salva Kiir 09/16/2024 UNESCO condemns looting of Sudan National Museum
Salva Kiir 06/17/2024 Security Council President calls for end to Sudan conflict
Related:
Riek Machar 04/05/2024 South Sudan president presses on holding elections as scheduled
Riek Machar 01/30/2024 German FM urges South Sudan leaders to renounce violence
Riek Machar 04/26/2023 S. Sudan holdout groups form alliance to topple Juba regime
Riek Machar 04/05/2024 South Sudan president presses on holding elections as scheduled
Riek Machar 01/30/2024 German FM urges South Sudan leaders to renounce violence
Riek Machar 04/26/2023 S. Sudan holdout groups form alliance to topple Juba regime