U.S. sanctions Michael Makuei, top army generals over crisis

[Elisabeth Janaina]

U.S. sanctions Michael Makuei, top army generals over crisis
File photo: Michael Makuei
File photo: Michael Makuei

The United States on Wednesday imposed targeted sanctions on two South
Sudanese government officials and one former official, saying they had
played roles in threatening the peace, security, or stability of South
Sudan, and three companies that are owned or controlled by one of
those individuals.

The Treasury Department sanctioned Gen. Malek Reuben Riak Rengu, the
army’s deputy chief of staff in charge of military procurement, and
Michael Makuei Lueth, South Sudan’s information minister. Sanctions
were also imposed on Paul Malong Awan, the former army chief. Three
companies owned or controlled by Reuben also were sanctioned.

The Treasury also released a Financial Crimes Enforcement Network
Advisory alerting U.S. financial institutions to the possibility that
certain South Sudanese senior political figures may try to use the
U.S. financial system to move or hide proceeds of public corruption.

The United States said it stands ready to impose other measures
against those responsible for undermining the peace, security, or
stability of South Sudan.

“These actions send a clear message to those enriching themselves at
the expense of the South Sudanese people that we will not let them
exploit the U.S. financial system to move and hide the proceeds of
their corruption,” said Sigal Mandelker, undersecretary for terrorism
and financial intelligence.

“Treasury will forcefully respond to the atrocities ongoing in South
Sudan by targeting those who abuse human rights, seek to derail the
peace process and obstruct reconciliation in South Sudan.”

State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement that
the administration will apply increasing scrutiny on South Sudanese
officials. “This is a man-made crisis, and one the Government of South
Sudan can stop,” she said.

Six million people in South Sudan face life-threatening hunger while
more than four million people have been displaced from their homes,
including two million refugees.