South Sudan activist urges probe after U.S. aid halt, warns of worsening humanitarian crisis

JUBA — A South Sudanese civil society leader on Thursday urged the government to launch an independent investigation into interference with aid operations after the United States suspended assistance in parts of Jonglei State, warning that the decision could have severe consequences for vulnerable civilians.

Ter Manyang Gatwech who, until recently, was the executive director of the Centre for Peace and Advocacy (CPA), said in a statement to Sudans Post that swift action was needed to allow U.S. assistance to resume in Ayod County and other affected areas.

“I call upon the Government of South Sudan to conduct an independent investigation so that U.S. Government assistance can be restored in Ayod County and other parts of the country,” Ter said.

His comments follow a statement by the United States announcing the suspension of U.S. foreign assistance in Ayod County, Jonglei State, and a review of aid to Western Bahr el-Ghazal, citing interference by South Sudanese officials and the detention of an aid worker who refused an illegal request to surrender assets.

Ter who himself is from Ayod County said the actions of individual officials were having a direct and damaging impact on civilians.

“The decisions made by specific individuals have serious consequences for the population of Ayod County, particularly the most vulnerable,” he said.

He called on the ruling Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM-IO) led by President Salva Kiir to take responsibility and make leadership changes to prevent further disruption to humanitarian operations.

“To ensure continued humanitarian services, the SPLM must take responsibility and make a decision to remove Hon. Chuol Jiek Bol from office,” Ter said.

The activist said his organisation had repeatedly warned about the risks posed by officials who interfere with humanitarian work or fail to respect basic aid principles.

“We have consistently warned that the actions of individuals who do not understand or respect humanitarian principles have severe implications,” he said.

Ter warned that continued interference could lead to a complete withdrawal of humanitarian organisations from Ayod County, compounding an already dire situation.

“As a result of these actions, the United States Government may withdraw support and remove all NGOs currently operating in Ayod County, which would further endanger the lives and well-being of the civilian population,” he said.

Ayod County is among the areas hardest hit by flooding, food insecurity and emerging return to civil war, with thousands of residents dependent on humanitarian assistance for survival.

Aid groups have warned that any prolonged suspension or withdrawal of services could worsen malnutrition and displacement in Jonglei State.

South Sudan relies heavily on foreign aid, particularly from the United States, which has provided more than $9.5 billion in assistance since the country’s independence in 2011. Washington has said it has a zero-tolerance policy for the theft or diversion of life-saving aid and has urged South Sudanese authorities to hold those responsible for interference accountable.