South Sudanese authorities have reiterated strong warnings to their citizens against becoming involved in Sudan’s ongoing war, following the reported death of a South Sudanese pilot in a deadly airstrike in South Darfur.
Speaking on Tuesday, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Akuei Bona Malwal Madut Riing emphasized that South Sudan’s position remains one of strict neutrality, grounded in a non-aggression agreement with Khartoum. The pact commits both nations to respect each other’s sovereignty and to refrain from interference in domestic affairs.
“The conflict in Sudan is an internal matter. We urge our people not to get involved or be swayed into participating in any form,” said Riing, adding that South Sudan is working with Sudanese authorities to facilitate safe exits for any citizens wishing to leave.
Deputy Minister of Interior Mangar Buong Aluong echoed the call, announcing several official border crossing points for refugees and returnees. These include routes through Renk, Abyei, Majok, Raja, Heglig, and Bentiu. Aluong urged South Sudanese nationals in Sudan to consider returning home to avoid being caught up in the fighting.
The warnings come in the wake of the death of South Sudanese pilot Samson Ohide, who was reportedly killed in an airstrike while flying a private aircraft registered in Kenya. The aircraft, allegedly delivering aid supplies, was hit in Nyala—an area currently under Rapid Support Forces (RSF) control. No party has claimed responsibility for the strike, though suspicion has been directed at the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
At the time of his death, Ohide served as secretary-general of the South Sudanese Pilots Association. His death has drawn public sympathy on social media, though authorities have not commented on the circumstances that led him to fly into an active conflict zone.
Observers warn that incidents like this risk drawing South Sudan into the conflict or creating the perception of partisan involvement, potentially affecting its diplomatic ties with neighboring Sudan