The activists described the move as a significant step toward accountability and a warning to leaders accused of obstructing implementation of the 2018 Revitalized Peace Agreement.

Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO) and a signatory stakeholder to the peace agreement, said the U.S. action sends a strong message to political leaders accused of fueling instability in the country.

“This is a remarkable move. It is an encouragement and real pressure for political accountability in South Sudan,” Yakani said.

According to Yakani, many South Sudanese leaders have delayed the country’s transition from conflict to peace due to fear of accountability.

“The reason leaders are dragging their feet on implementing the peace agreement is fear of being held accountable,” he stated.

Yakani urged other countries, including African governments, to adopt similar measures against individuals accused of undermining peace and stability in South Sudan.

“We hope other governments undertake similar steps because peace and stability are demands of the citizens of South Sudan,” he added.

He further accused some political actors of profiting from violence and weakening the country’s independence aspirations.

“Our independence should not be undermined by individuals we consider spoilers of peace and profiteers of violence,” Yakani said.

Meanwhile, activist James Boboya Edmund described the U.S. sanctions announcement from Washington as “significant news” that reflects growing international concern over governance failures in South Sudan.

“This is news the people of South Sudan want to hear. It tells citizens that the international community understands the challenges they are facing,” Boboya said.

He called for additional targeted sanctions against officials accused of obstructing the peace process and diverting national resources for personal gain.

“We are asking for more sanctions and more punishment for leaders obstructing peace implementation and squandering the resources of this nation,” he said.

Boboya alleged that corruption and mismanagement have left the country unable to meet basic obligations, including payment of civil servants and security forces.

“The country is very broke. It cannot pay civil servants or even the army responsible for protecting the sovereignty of the nation,” he stated.

He also criticized the government over deteriorating infrastructure, weak healthcare and education systems, unemployment, and lack of investment in agriculture and the private sector.

“There are potholes all over Juba, poor roads, failing health services, and an ailing education system,” Boboya said.

The activists urged the government under President Salva Kiir Mayardit to recommit to the timely implementation of the peace agreement, release political prisoners, and engage in an inclusive national dialogue aimed at steering the country toward stability and economic recovery.

The U.S. measures come amid increasing international pressure on South Sudan’s leaders over delays in implementing key provisions of the revitalized peace agreement and ongoing concerns about corruption and governance.