This archive report was first published on 17 December 2019.
On December 16, 2019, the United States imposed sanctions on two senior South Sudanese officials accused of obstructing the peace process and perpetuating conflict in the country.
Minister of Cabinet Affairs Martin Elia Lomuro and Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs Kuol Manyang Juuk were blacklisted by the US Treasury Department for their alleged role in fomenting conflict and hindering the peace process.
The sanctions, which freeze any US assets held by the officials and prohibit Americans from doing business with them, are the latest move by the US to pressure South Sudan's politicians to form a unity government.
South Sudan has been embroiled in civil war since 2013, with an estimated 400,000 people killed and millions forced from their homes.
President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar signed a peace deal in 2018 to form a unity government by November 12, 2019, but the deadline was later extended by 100 days.
Deputy US Treasury Secretary Justin Muzinich said the cabinet officials were targeted for their role in inhibiting political unification, expanding the conflict, and profiting from South Sudan's war economy.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo threatened visa restrictions on anyone who endangers the peace process in South Sudan and said the US could take further action.
