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Juba, February 27, 2025 – In a surprising turn of events, the Government of Kuwait has formally rejected Tut Kew Manime as South Sudan’s proposed ambassador, dealing a blow to the East African nation’s diplomatic efforts. The decision, detailed in a letter from Kuwait to South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, points to Manime’s past as a national security adviser and his lack of formal education as key reasons for the refusal.
Kuwait’s rejection stems from its stringent policy against appointing former intelligence officials to diplomatic posts, a stance underscored in the letter. “It is important to maintain the historical relations between our countries by ensuring mutual respect for one another,” the correspondence stated, signaling Kuwait’s commitment to upholding its standards for diplomatic representatives. The move highlights a rare public rift between the two nations, which have historically maintained cordial ties.
Manime, a close confidant of South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, has been a prominent figure in the country’s political landscape. Despite lacking formal academic credentials, he has frequently accompanied Kiir on international visits, leveraging his loyalty to secure influential roles. However, his fortunes appear to be shifting. The rejection follows his recent ousting from two significant government positions in South Sudan, raising questions about his standing both domestically and abroad.
The diplomatic rebuff comes at a sensitive time for South Sudan, which has been working to strengthen its global presence amid ongoing internal challenges. Kuwait’s decision could ripple through Juba’s foreign policy circles, potentially prompting a reassessment of how ambassadorial candidates are selected.
For now, the rejection underscores the high bar some nations set for diplomatic appointees, prioritizing formal qualifications and professional backgrounds over political loyalty.
South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue an official response, leaving observers awaiting Juba’s next move. Will this setback strain relations with Kuwait, or will it push South Sudan to nominate a candidate more aligned with international expectations?
As the story unfolds, the incident marks a notable chapter in the young nation’s diplomatic journey.
