United States sanctions, unfortunate – South Sudan Government

The government of South Sudan has described United States sanctions on three leading officials as unfortunate.

Information minister, Michael Makuei Lueth, deputy defence chief, Malik Reuben Riak Rengu and the former head of the army, General Paul Malong were banned from travelling to the United States and had their assets frozen.

Three companies owned by the deputy defence chief have also been targeted.

The United States treasury said that the accused persons had abused human rights and also tried to derail the peace process.

A civil war is currently ongoing in South Sudan which began in December 2013 and attempts to get the sides to stick to a peace deal have failed.