The Government of South Sudan has denied widespread rumors circulating on social media suggesting that President Salva Kiir Mayardit has died.
In a statement on Thursday, May 15, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation dismissed the claims as unfounded and malicious.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of South Sudan 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 statement began.
The ministry reassured citizens and the international community of the president’s wellbeing and continued leadership.
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“The Ministry would like to assure the South Sudanese public, the region and the international community that H.E. President Salva Kiir Mayardit is alive, well and fully engaging in the service of the nation. He continues to carry out his presidential duties with vigor, commitment, sound health and complete fitness,” it continued.
With rumors about Kiir’s health spreading on social media, the administration emphasized the danger of such misinformation.
"The Ministry condemns in the strongest terms this deliberate spread of misinformation aimed at creating unnecessary panic, confusion, and instability. Such fake news only serves the interests of those who wish to undermine our nation’s sovereignty, hard-won peace and progress,” the statement further read.
The ministry also urged the public to be cautious about what they share online and to rely on official sources for accurate updates.
“These are entirely baseless and irresponsible rumors fabricated by enemies of peace, development, nation building and stability in South Sudan. We call on the public to disregard these rumors and refrain from sharing unverified information,” the statement concluded.
