Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio has expressed deep sadness over the death of veteran General Joseph Lagu Yanga. The bishop described Lagu as a leader whose sacrifices significantly contributed to South Sudan's struggle for freedom and self-determination. He extended his sympathies to Lagu's family, relatives, friends, and the people of South Sudan.
General Lagu was a prominent military commander and politician who played a central role in the Anyanya liberation movement during Sudan's first civil war, which lasted from 1955 to 1972. He led efforts that culminated in the signing of the Addis Ababa Agreement in 1972, ending the 17-year conflict and granting the Southern Region a degree of autonomy under the Sudanese government. This agreement marked a significant milestone in the region's history.
Following the Addis Ababa Agreement, Lagu continued to serve in public office, including as president of the High Executive Council of the Southern Region from 1978 to 1979 and as second vice president of Sudan from 1982 to 1985. He also served in diplomatic roles and remained an influential figure in the political history of Southern Sudan. His contributions are remembered as part of the broader struggle that eventually led to South Sudan's independence from Sudan on July 9, 2011.
Bishop Hiiboro highlighted Western Equatoria State's place in the history of the liberation struggle, recalling the 1955 workers' protests in Nzara and the Torit mutiny of August 18, 1955, as important milestones in the pursuit of freedom and dignity. These events marked the beginning of the struggle for independence and self-determination in the region.
The bishop called on citizens, political leaders, and communities to put aside divisions and work towards building a peaceful and united country where every person is treated with dignity. He emphasised that the legacy of liberation heroes should not be measured only by their military achievements but also by the values of justice, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence they leave for future generations.
Bishop Hiiboro reminded the faithful of Jesus Christ's teaching: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." He prayed for God to grant General Lagu eternal rest, comfort his bereaved family, and guide South Sudan towards unity and lasting peace. The bishop concluded with a message of hope and unity for the nation.
The death of General Lagu serves as a reminder to South Sudanese of the importance of preserving their shared history and learning from the sacrifices of previous generations. As the nation mourns the loss of this veteran leader, citizens are urged to reflect on the values of unity, justice, and peace that defined Lagu's life and legacy.
Key points
- Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala mourns Gen. Joseph Lagu Yanga's death and calls for unity and peace in South Sudan.
- General Lagu played a central role in the Anyanya liberation movement and the signing of the Addis Ababa Agreement in 1972.
- The bishop emphasised the importance of preserving South Sudan's shared history and learning from the sacrifices of previous generations.
