South Sudanese Sensation: Khaman Maluach’s Future in Limbo Due to Trump Policy
Khaman Maluach, a standout freshman basketball player at Duke University and a top NBA draft prospect, is facing uncertainty regarding his U.S. residency status due to a recent policy change by the Trump administration.
Sudden Policy Shift
On April 5, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders would be revoked “effective immediately.” This decision was made in response to South Sudan’s alleged failure to accept the timely return of its citizens who have been repatriated from the United States. The policy was enforced just minutes before Duke’s Final Four game against the University of Houston, which ended in a narrow 70-67 loss for the Blue Devils.
Impact on Duke University
Duke University has acknowledged the potential implications of this policy on its South Sudanese students, including Maluach. A university spokesperson stated that officials are “looking into the situation and working expeditiously to understand the implications for Duke students.”
Background on South Sudanese TPS
South Sudanese nationals in the U.S. have previously benefited from Temporary Protected Status (TPS) due to ongoing instability in their home country. However, this status is set to expire on May 3, 2025, adding to the uncertainty faced by individuals like Maluach.
Concerns Amidst Ongoing Instability
The policy change occurs against the backdrop of renewed violence in South Sudan, stemming from political tensions and recent arrests of key figures. This instability raises concerns about the safety and well-being of citizens returning to the country.
Looking Ahead
As the situation develops, both Maluach and Duke University await further clarification from federal authorities regarding the enforcement of the new policy and its impact on affected individuals. The broader implications for South Sudanese nationals in the U.S. remain uncertain, with many seeking guidance on their legal standing and future prospects.
