Ambassador Garang Deng Aguer |Photo Credit|Courtesy

Senior Ambassadior Garang Deng Aguer has dismissed claims that tribalism is driving political and military actions in South Sudan, saying the country’s challenges are instead linked to groups in power targeting opponents regardless of ethnic background.

Speaking at an event in Juba this week on current political tensions, and widely circulated on social media, the ambassador said those suggesting tribal divisions in the country were “joking,” arguing that state actions are not based on ethnicity.

“Whoever said there is tribalism in South Sudan is joking. It’s a group of people who control nd target whoever opposes them, regardless of your ethnicity or tribe,” he said.

He further claimed that military and political operations in Nuer areas are being carried out by members of the same community, framing it as a form of internal political protection rather than ethnic targeting.

He also compared the situation to political strategies in Uganda under President Yoweri Museveni, saying such approaches involve defending political gains against opposition.

“This is what is called ‘protecting the gain’ in Uganda by President Museveni. When we are protecting our gains, we target anyone that comes our way, even if he is our blood brother,” he said.

The ambassador said the situation in Aweil is not based on ethnicity, but rather on political opposition and criticism of government authorities.

He called for national unity, urging South Sudanese to speak with one voice in order to address the country’s challenges.