Santino Ayuel Longar, the Undersecretary in South Sudan’s Ministry of Petroleum|Photo Credit-Courtesy

The Undersecretary in the Ministry of Petroleum, Santino Ayuel Longar, has publicly spoken out against political interference and pressure in the awarding of contracts, warning that favoritism threatens the growth of national institutions in South Sudan.

Speaking during a public event in Juba, Santino Ayuel Longar said one of the biggest challenges facing public officials is pressure from powerful individuals seeking government contracts through what he described as “briefcase companies.”

“The most important challenge is political. Who do I serve: an individual or the country?” Longar questioned during his remarks in a video posted by Citizens Voice Media.

He cited a hypothetical example involving a 15-million-dollar contract, saying officials are often pressured to award deals to politically connected companies instead of established national institutions.

“If I don’t give it to Nilepet Insurance, then a powerful individual with a briefcase company is on my neck,” he said.

The senior petroleum official stressed that his decisions are guided by patriotism and the sacrifices made by millions of South Sudanese during the liberation struggle.

Longar said he could not choose personal interests over national institutions while remembering those who lost their lives for the country.

“Compared to many millions of people who have died for this country, my blood doesn’t come close to that,” he stated.

He further said threats and intimidation would not influence his decisions, emphasizing that public institutions must be protected and strengthened.

“No amount of threat or psychological intimidation will make me decide in favor of a particular individual,” he added.

Longar also acknowledged the suffering endured by liberation veterans, saying some continue to live with physical and psychological wounds sustained during the struggle for independence.

He noted that while he welcomes advice from colleagues and stakeholders, decisions must be based on practicality, validity, and national interest rather than political pressure.

The remarks come amid continued public concerns over transparency, accountability, and alleged favoritism in the awarding of government contracts in South Sudan.