Juba County caretaker Commissioner Kalisto Lado denied media reports that he ordered Kenyans and other foreign nationals to leave South Sudan within seven days, stating his comments were misquoted.

Lado emphasized that he lacks the authority to deport or evacuate foreigners, noting that such powers rest with South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

While rejecting any expulsion order, Lado said foreigners are welcome provided they do not engage in small‑scale retail trade, which he believes should be reserved for South Sudanese citizens.

He urged foreign entrepreneurs to focus on wholesale activities or larger‑scale investment that can employ South Sudanese workers, rather than operating small shops or food stalls.

Lado clarified that any enforcement of restrictions would be carried out by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Interior Ministry, not by the county commissioner’s office.

The clarification follows a viral video in which Lado appeared to demand that foreign nationals leave Juba, sparking concern among Kenyan traders who run small shops, restaurants and other enterprises in the capital.

Lado’s remarks come days after Kenya announced a 90‑day deadline for undocumented foreigners to regularise their status, a move that has heightened attention to cross‑border trade policies.