South Sudan Gov’t Breaks Silence On President Salva Kiir Death Reports

Juba, South Sudan |The government of South Sudan has firmly dismissed swirling rumours claiming President Salva Kiir has died, assuring the public that the head of state is alive, healthy, and actively fulfilling his presidential responsibilities.

The speculation emerged on Wednesday after several high-profile social media accounts—many of them run from outside South Sudan—shared unverified claims about Kiir’s alleged death.

Notably, among those amplifying the rumour was Kenyan political figure Alinur Mohamed, a vocal supporter of the Orange Democratic Movement and its leader, Raila Odinga.

In response, South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a strong statement on Thursday, labeling the reports as “false and malicious.” The statement reaffirmed that President Kiir remains in good health and continues to serve the nation with dedication and energy.

“The Ministry categorically denies the baseless rumours circulating on social media suggesting the death of President Salva Kiir Mayardit,” the statement read. “We want to reassure the South Sudanese people, our neighbours, and the global community that the President is well and actively carrying out his national duties.”

Authorities further criticized the individuals and groups behind the misinformation, accusing them of trying to destabilize the country and create public unrest.

“This reckless spread of disinformation is a deliberate attempt to sow panic and confusion, and to disrupt the peace and progress of South Sudan,” the Ministry added. “These are unfounded lies driven by those who oppose the nation’s unity and development.”

This is not the first time that false reports about President Kiir’s death have gone viral. Similar rumours have circulated repeatedly over the past 15 years. In 2020, social media posts claimed he had either died of COVID-19 or was receiving treatment abroad. The President later appeared publicly to refute those claims.

In 2016, as violence escalated in Juba, social media was once again flooded with claims that Kiir had either died or fled to Uganda for medical help. The government responded swiftly, and President Kiir was seen driving through the capital, waving to residents in a bid to quash the rumours.

Back in 2009, similar speculation about his death surfaced, prompting top government officials—including then-Vice President Riek Machar—to hold press briefings to confirm Kiir was alive and well.

The government maintains that such fabrications serve no purpose other than to hinder peace efforts and undermine national stability.