Tensions are rising between Washington and the South Sudanese authorities. During a visit to Juba on May 7 and 8, 2026, Nick Checker, representative of the U.S. Bureau of African Affairs, delivered a particularly firm message to the country's leaders.
The United States denounces the delays in the implementation of the peace agreement signed in 2018 as well as the detention of Vice President Riek Machar.
For several months, the fragile South Sudanese peace process has been stalled. Renewed violence, political tensions, and institutional gridlock are fueling concerns within the international community. Washington is now accusing Salva Kiir's government of gradually distancing itself from the commitments made under the peace agreement.
Following his meetings with several South Sudanese officials, Nick Checker strongly criticized the government. He accused the authorities of failing to invest sufficiently in essential services for the population and of delaying promised reforms.
President Salva Kiir's inner circle maintains that elections are scheduled for December 2026. They also assert that political dialogue is underway with opposition groups. The new army chief has even announced the integration of certain rebel factions into the national armed forces. But for Washington, these announcements are insufficient.
Riek Machar's detention at the heart of the tensions
Nick Checker called the idea of political dialogue a "farce" while Vice President Riek Machar remains detained and faces legal proceedings. Machar, however, leads the second-largest party to sign the 2018 peace agreement.
The US official also accuses South Sudanese leaders of using internal crises and promises of electoral reforms to gain more international support.
Political tensions remain very visible within the country's institutions. On Monday, MPs loyal to Riek Machar walked out of the National Assembly to protest amendments proposed by the presidential camp to the peace agreement.
According to them, these changes are being made without consultation and in violation of the procedures laid down in the text signed in 2018. A further illustration of the deep divisions that continue to undermine the political transition in South Sudan.
