South Sudan Denies Sending Raila to Uganda to Meet Museveni over Machar’s Detention

JUBA — South Sudan’s government has refuted claims by Kenyan special envoy Raila Odinga that he visited Uganda under President Salva Kiir’s instructions to discuss the detention of opposition leader Riek Machar.

Government Clarifies Diplomatic Mission

David Amuor Majur, press secretary to President Kiir, stated the government needed to correct misinformation in Odinga’s statements following his meeting with the South Sudanese leader.

“The suggestion that H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit requested Hon. Odinga to meet with the President of Uganda misrepresents diplomatic norms and principles. It is essential to clarify that Hon. Odinga’s mission to Uganda was prearranged and not a directive from the Government of South Sudan,” Majur said during a Monday press conference.

Controversial Television Report

The clarification comes after a March 29, 2025 Citizen Television report where Odinga claimed:

“I traveled to Juba, South Sudan, as an IGAD Special Envoy… Kiir instructed me to sit with President Museveni.”

South Sudan’s Diplomatic Stance

Majur emphasized that while South Sudan welcomed Odinga’s peace efforts, his Uganda visit wasn’t at Kiir’s direction:

• The government values partnerships with Kenya and IGAD members
• All stakeholders should respect South Sudan’s sovereignty
• Claims about Angelina Teny’s house arrest are unfounded

Flag Misrepresentation Controversy

The press secretary also criticized Citizen Television for incorrectly displaying Sudan’s flag instead of South Sudan’s, demanding an apology for the error that caused “considerable distress.”

Commitment to Peace

Majur concluded by reaffirming South Sudan’s dedication to regional stability:

“The Government of South Sudan remains resolute in its commitment to advancing peace, stability, and security within its borders. We are dedicated to nurturing constructive diplomatic relations with our neighboring countries and the broader international community.”

This article summarizes an original report from Sudans Post. Full credit goes to the original source.