Government clears the air over social media claims about President Salva Kiir’s death.
The South Sudan government has officially refuted claims circulating online that President Salva Kiir Mayardit has passed away. The response comes after widespread rumors triggered concern on various social media platforms, forcing authorities to set the record straight.
In a press release issued on Thursday, May 15, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation labeled the reports as completely false and malicious in nature.
President Kiir is Alive and Active
In the statement, the ministry reassured the public that President Kiir is in good health and actively fulfilling his responsibilities as head of state. According to the government, there’s no truth to the speculation and the president remains firmly committed to serving the country.
They stated that Kiir is “alive, well, and fully engaged in the affairs of the nation,” adding that he is performing his duties with “sound health and complete fitness.”
Fake News Aimed at Destabilization
Authorities condemned the rumor-mongering, describing it as a deliberate act meant to create panic and confusion. The ministry emphasized that such content is not only reckless but also a threat to national unity and peace.
They warned that false information like this only benefits those who seek to destabilize the progress South Sudan has made in recent years.
Call for Caution and Responsible Sharing
The Foreign Affairs Ministry also urged South Sudanese citizens and the wider public to avoid spreading unverified news. It called on everyone to rely on official government channels for accurate information.
The ministry concluded by labeling the rumors as “baseless and irresponsible” and appealed to people to refrain from participating in the spread of lies meant to sow division.
This strong statement from the government is seen as a move to restore calm and assure both the public and the international community that the president is still firmly in charge.
