South Sudan’s President Kiir Quietly Returns to Juba After 10-Day Absence Amid Health Speculations

After a 10-day absence that stirred speculation about his health, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit has quietly returned to the capital, Juba.

The 73-year-old leader touched down at Juba International Airport from the United Arab Emirates, accompanied by senior government officials, but did not make any public statements upon arrival.

His low-key return comes after days of mounting speculation about his wellbeing, with many suspecting the trip to Dubai was for medical reasons. While officials maintained it was an official diplomatic visit, the lack of updates during his extended stay raised concerns across the country.

Kiir was received at the airport by top government figures, including Vice President Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel.

Addressing the media, Presidential Press Secretary Ambassador David Amuor Majur confirmed the president had landed safely in Juba, downplaying rumours by stating, “We have just arrived in Juba from the United Arab Emirates with the president. He is now in Juba.”

Kiir had departed for the UAE on June 22, in what was initially described by his office as a diplomatic mission. The Gulf country maintains bilateral relations with South Sudan, offering both humanitarian support and trade cooperation.

However, his extended silence during the visit coincided with heightened regional tensions, particularly following Sudan’s decision in May to cut ties with the UAE, accusing it of supporting rival armed factions in its internal conflict.

While officials continue to insist the president is in good health, his discreet return has done little to completely quiet the public curiosity surrounding his prolonged stay abroad.