Foreign ministry clarifies foreign traders’ status after Kalisto remarks

South Sudan’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said on Thursday there was no government directive requiring foreign nationals to leave the country, adding that commercial activities are governed by national laws and any restrictions must be handled by the relevant authorities in accordance with the law.

The statement followed remarks by Juba County Caretaker Commissioner Kalisto Ladu Nyigilo calling for foreign nationals to be barred from operating small-scale businesses in the capital.

The ministry said it had taken note of recent public statements concerning the participation of foreign nationals in small-scale commercial activities in Juba.

“There is no directive from the national government requiring foreign nationals to leave South Sudan,” it said in a statement dated Oct. 8.

Ladu said earlier this week that foreign nationals should not operate small-scale retail businesses in Juba and should instead focus on wholesale trade, factories and other larger investments.

He cited businesses including the sale of chapati, onions and tomatoes, as well as motorcycle taxi services, saying such activities should be reserved for South Sudanese.

His remarks were later circulated on social media as an order for foreign nationals to leave Juba or South Sudan within seven days. Ladu denied issuing such an order, saying he did not have the authority to expel foreign nationals from the country.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry did not specifically address whether Juba County has the authority to restrict foreign nationals from particular types of businesses.

It said commercial activities are subject to South Sudanese laws and regulations and that any measures affecting such activities should be handled by the competent authorities in accordance with the law.

“The Government recognises that commercial activities are subject to applicable laws and regulations,” the ministry said.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, legitimate foreign investment and constructive relations with foreign nationals and their respective countries.

The statement comes amid concerns among foreign traders, including Ugandans, Kenyans and other East Africans, who operate small businesses in Juba. Uganda has also sought talks with South Sudan over restrictions affecting foreign-owned retail businesses.

Ladu, who was appointed caretaker commissioner last week, has said his position is aimed at protecting economic opportunities for South Sudanese rather than expelling foreigners.

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