The United States government has welcomed The Sentry’s report on corruption in South Sudan, a foreign affairs spokesperson said today.

"The track record of corruption in South Sudan is extensive –including abuse of preferential access to foreign currency, theft of state assets, and corruption in contracting and procurement. While corruption is harmful in any part of the world, it is especially appalling in a country on the verge of famine and struggling to build a government after only five years of independence,’’ said Mark C. Toner Deputy Department Spokesperson.

Since South Sudan's civil war began in 2013, the US has consistently threatened targeted financial sanctions on top leaders in the country, including Army Chief of Staff Paul Malong. Some experts believe that sanctioning top leaders in South Sudan could be counter-productive. 

"We are deeply disappointed that their leaders, given the opportunity to build a successful country at independence and a second chance to harness peace for progress with the August 2015 peace agreement, have failed to put aside personal power struggles and individual enrichment for the good of their people," Toner said.