JUBA — South Sudan has officially returned Thongxay Nilakout, a Lao national previously sent to Juba by the United States as part of a third-country deportation arrangement, back to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
Nilakout departed Juba International Airport on Thursday, October 8, 2026, under a bilateral agreement finalized between Juba and Vientiane.
Diplomatic Coordination and Human Rights
Addressing reporters at the airport, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation spokesperson Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayen explained that the repatriation was executed via established diplomatic channels and international legal frameworks.
“The two sides have worked together through their respective diplomatic channels and competent authorities to agree on the arrangements for his return,” Ambassador Apuk stated.
According to the ministry, Vientiane provided formal diplomatic guarantees ensuring that Nilakout would receive treatment aligned with international human rights standards upon arrival.
Ambassador Apuk noted that throughout his residence in South Sudan, authorities preserved his fundamental rights and personal dignity, framing the operation as a successful example of intergovernmental cooperation.
“Our objective is to ensure that the transfer was orderly, safe, and handled with due regard to his individual rights,” she said.
Status of Remaining Third-Country Deportees
Ambassador Apuk provided an update on the remaining third-country deportees currently accommodated in South Sudan:
- Initial Group: One South Sudanese citizen was among eight individuals transferred to Juba from the United States in July 2025 and has since been freed.
- Prior Repatriations: A Mexican national departed in September 2025, followed by a Vietnamese national earlier this year.
- Current Caseload: Five individuals remain in the country, consisting of two Myanmar nationals, two Cuban nationals, and Makula Kintu, who arrived under a separate transfer in April 2025.
The Ministry indicated it is actively coordinating with partner governments and international entities to secure safe departures for the remaining individuals. “We will continue to handle the remaining cases in the same constructive and responsible manner,” Ambassador Apuk affirmed.
Farewell Statements from Nilakout
Before boarding his flight, Nilakout expressed gratitude toward the South Sudanese government and public for hosting him and organizing his transit home, noting that officials supplied him with daily essentials during his time at the municipal guest house.
“First and foremost, I would like to thank South Sudan to welcome me to this country and to help me get to my native-born country, the country of Laos,” Nilakout remarked, extending wishes for peace and regional stability.
Looking ahead, Nilakout stated he is prepared to reintegrate into the workforce in Laos. “Yes, I’m ready to go back to Laos and work. Hopefully everything will go well there for me as well,” he said.
