By Chol D. Johnson
The South Sudanese government has dismissed allegations issued earlier by the United Nations claiming that the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces poisoned community water in Akobo.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Agnes Adlino Orifa, the ministry’s undersecretary, dismissed the allegations, saying the SSPDF shares the same water point with the civilians.
“In fact, South Sudan People’s Defense Forces are sharing and drinking from the same water source with civilians; there is no reason for such an allegation because there is no evidence,” Adlino dismissed.
According to the ministry, the allegations were echoed by the United States’ Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Michael Walz, during the Security Council briefing, which took place on 30th April 2026.
She underscored that the government noted with great concern the remarks delivered on 30th April 2026 by the United States of America’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Michael Walz.
Adlino underscored that South Sudan holds the highest regard for the historic relations and partnership with the United States of America.
She acknowledged that the United States of America stood firm alongside the people of South Sudan in their long and painful struggle for independence.
“The relationship was forged through decades of solidarity and shared values,” Adlino expressed.
According to Adlino, the government remains committed to closely and constructively working with the U.S. government and stands ready to jointly verify such allegations with the U.S. Embassy in Juba.
“There is already an existing mechanism that brings together the government and UNMASS on a monthly basis or whenever there is an urgent matter of concern,” she explained.
She further added that the revitalised transitional government of national unity is implementing the agreement on the resolution of the conflict in South Sudan.
Adlino said that the government has been continuously collaborating with international partners, including UNMASS, to navigate the complex challenges of implementing the revitalised peace agreement.
She said that the government is committed to protecting its citizens, and the ultimate realisation of democratic elections in December 2026 remains unwavering.