Unexpected stopover in Juba
When seven third-country nationals landed in Juba after a July 5, 2025 deportation flight from the United States, South Sudan suddenly found itself custodian of travellers whose final destinations lay elsewhere.
On 6 September, cameras captured Mexican citizen Jesus Munoz Gutierrez boarding a return flight, closing a chapter that tested Juba’s still-young diplomatic playbook.
Coordinated diplomacy in action
Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayan told reporters the ministry “worked around the clock” to process travel documents, underscoring the institution’s growing administrative muscle.
His counterpart, Ambassador-designate Alejandro Estevil Castro, praised the “very close cooperation” that allowed him to assume custody and accompany Gutierrez first to Addis Ababa, then onward to Mexico.
Human rights considerations welcomed
Both diplomats highlighted that the detainee’s rights were observed throughout his two-month stay, a detail South Sudan hopes will temper international scrutiny of its security services.
Gutierrez offered a brief, emotional “God bless South Sudan” before departure, signalling relief rather than resentment over the unexpected stop in Africa.
Toward stronger Mexico–South Sudan ties
In the margins, Estevil Castro met Foreign Minister Ramadan Mohamed Goc to discuss broader cooperation ranging from scholarships to agriculture, suggesting the episode may serve as diplomatic springboard rather than distraction.
Analysts in Juba note that forging ties beyond traditional partners could diversify investment and provide South Sudan with fresh advocacy within multilateral forums.
Regional reflections on migration management
The journey underscores how African transit states respond when global deportation routes shift unexpectedly, raising logistical, legal and humanitarian questions that extend far beyond border control.
For now, Juba officials believe the smooth handover projects an image of readiness as the country seeks deeper integration with continental and international systems.