The government of South Sudan on Thursday dismissed widespread social media rumors claiming that President Salva Kiir had died.
Online speculation about the 73-year-old leader’s health gained traction late Wednesday, with some posts — including one from a prominent Kenyan figure — claiming Kiir had “kicked the bucket.”
The presidency responded firmly, with the Foreign Ministry releasing a statement that “categorically and strongly denies the false and malicious reports circulating on social media claiming that His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit has passed away.”
“These posts are entirely baseless and irresponsible rumors fabricated by enemies of peace, development, nation-building, and stability,” the statement added.
President Kiir, who has led the country since independence, has long faced rumors concerning his health. However, he has remained active in recent months, holding meetings with visiting officials and enacting several significant government reshuffles.
He also recently took strong actions against his longtime political rival and current First Vice President, Riek Machar, placing him under house arrest and detaining a number of his allies.
The denial comes amid renewed insecurity in South Sudan, where clashes between forces loyal to Kiir and Machar have erupted in multiple regions. The violence has raised concerns about the potential return to civil war.
AFP
