South Sudan Cabinet Affairs Minister Under Fire for “Hostile vs. Friendly” Nuer Remark

Published: May 2 2025 – South Sudan Online, Juba

Introduction

A political storm is raging in Juba after Martin Elia Lomuro—Minister of Cabinet Affairs and secretary of the High-Level Standing Committee on peace implementation—classified Nuer-inhabited counties as either “hostile” or “friendly” to government. The comment has ignited nationwide outrage, renewed ethnic tension and triggered calls for his immediate dismissal.

What the Minister Said

During a recent press conference, Lomuro claimed nine of Upper Nile’s sixteen Nuer counties are “hostile,” while seven are “friendly.” Critics say the statement deepens ethnic fault lines at a time when South Sudan’s fragile peace still hangs in the balance.

Immediate Backlash

Nuer lawmakers in the Reconstituted Transitional Legislative Assembly accused Lomuro of stoking division and “weaponising identity.” The Nuer Leadership Forum and Nuer Youth Union branded the remark “genocidal rhetoric,” demanding the minister resign or be fired.

Threat of Legal Action

Labour Minister James Hoth Mai—chair of the Nuer Leadership Peace Forum—has threatened legal proceedings, stating, “We cannot allow language that endangers national cohesion.”

Context: A Region on Edge

Upper Nile has been tense since February, when a senior government commander and several troops were killed. Authorities blame the White Army—a Nuer youth militia they claim is aligned with First Vice-President Riek Machar’s opposition forces.

Nuer Contributions to Liberation

Nuer legislators remind the nation that Nuer fighters played decisive roles in South Sudan’s liberation, arguing that portraying them as “hostile” dishonours their sacrifice and risks reopening war-time wounds.

Government Clarification Attempts

Youth and Sports Minister Joseph Geng Akech attempted damage control, asserting Lomuro’s remarks were “misinterpreted.” Observers, however, say only a formal apology and retraction can ease tensions.

Silence from Lomuro

At press time, Martin Elia Lomuro had not responded publicly. His silence fuels speculation over whether President Salva Kiir will keep him in Cabinet amid mounting pressure.

Why Words Matter

South Sudan’s peace deal relies on trust between communities fractured by years of conflict. Officials and civil leaders warn that careless language from senior figures can undermine reconciliation efforts and trigger fresh violence.

Conclusion

South Sudan stands at a delicate crossroads. Whether Lomuro retracts, resigns or is dismissed, the episode underscores the urgent need for leaders to employ inclusive rhetoric and prioritise national unity over ethnic labelling. Only through mutual respect can the world’s youngest nation safeguard its hard-won peace.

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