In a startling revelation, United Nations investigators have accused the leaders of South Sudan of engaging in extensive plundering of the nation’s wealth, diverting billions of dollars from public funds at a time when the majority of the population is grappling with a severe food crisis.

Released on Tuesday, the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan's report alleges that since gaining independence in 2011, authorities have developed numerous schemes to siphon off significant amounts of public revenue.

Capturing Wealth for Private Gain

The report paints a bleak picture, stating, “The country has been captured by a predatory elite that has institutionalized the systematic looting of the nation’s wealth for private gain.” This predatory behavior allows a select few to enrich themselves while the state neglects its duty to the people, essentially outsourcing essential services like food, healthcare, and education to international donors.

“Corruption is killing South Sudanese,” the report chillingly asserts.

Grand Corruption Unveiled

The comprehensive 101-page document highlights specific instances of corruption, particularly between 2021 and 2024, labeling it a case of “grand corruption.” Notably, the government’s oil-for-roads initiative is criticized for misappropriating $1.7 billion of the $2.2 billion allocated, with close ties to businessman Benjamin Bol Mel, a confidant of President Salva Kiir.

Tragically, despite substantial investment, 95% of the roads remain unfinished.

Official Denial and Further Irregularities

In response to the allegations, the South Sudanese government dismissed the UN report as an attempt to tarnish the nation’s image, citing it as politically motivated.

Additionally, the report uncovered another dubious scheme involving Crawford Capital Ltd, which allegedly benefited from millions through irregular government e-services like electronic visas.

The commission emphasized the need to address corruption as it severely hampers the government’s ability to meet human rights obligations.

A Nation on the Brink

Current food security assessments reveal that 76 out of 79 counties are engulfed in a severe food crisis, with insufficient funds aimed at alleviating the situation.

Political Turmoil Brews Renewed Fears of Civil War

Adding to the chaos, Riek Machar, the suspended first vice president, was recently charged with murder, treason, and crimes against humanity, following militia attacks against federal forces. Concerns are mounting that these tensions could spiral back into civil war.

Since independence in 2011, South Sudan has suffered a civil war that claimed around 400,000 lives and displaced roughly four million people. Though a fragile peace was established in 2018, recent hostilities threaten to unravel the power-sharing agreement between Kiir and Machar, reigniting fears of renewed conflict.