The family of General Joseph Lagu Yanga has welcomed the decision by President Salva Kiir Mayardit to accord him a state funeral. Ambassador John Andruga, speaking on behalf of the family, confirmed that Lagu's burial will take place in Juba. The family had held consultations with close relatives, including Lagu's wife, sister, and daughters, following the President's announcement.
General Lagu Yanga died in Juba earlier this week at the age of 95. His death prompted tributes recognizing his role in South Sudan's liberation struggle. Lagu was a leading figure in South Sudan's liberation history and became the leader of the Anyanya One movement in 1963 during the first Sudanese civil war.
Under Lagu's leadership, the Anyanya One movement gained momentum in its struggle against the Sudanese government. The struggle culminated in the 1972 Addis Ababa Agreement, which granted the then Southern Sudan regional autonomy and ushered in a period of relative peace. Lagu's contribution extended beyond his family and home community, describing him as a national figure whose legacy belonged to the entire country.
Following the 1972 agreement, Lagu entered politics and served as president of the High Executive Council of the autonomous Southern Sudan region from 1978 to 1980. He later served as Sudan's second vice president under President Gaafar Nimeiry. Lagu also held diplomatic positions, including serving as Sudan's permanent representative to the United Nations in New York from 1990 to 1992.
Lagu remained an influential figure in South Sudan's political history and supported the people's right to self-determination ahead of the 2011 referendum that led to the country's independence. His memoir, Sudan Odyssey: From Ruin to Hope, was published in 2006. The family acknowledged that a state funeral or state burial could not take place in the village and agreed that the ceremony should be held in Juba.
Ambassador Andruga emphasized that Lagu's legacy belonged to the entire country, saying "Lagu was a commander of all the community of South Sudan. He died not as a son of Madi, but he is for the whole South Sudan." Andruga encouraged South Sudanese to celebrate Lagu's contribution to the nation, saying "Therefore, all South Sudan is mourning. We are no longer crying as people of South Sudan. We are celebrating his legacy because he has done a lot for this country."
President Kiir has announced a state funeral in honour of the late general. The burial date is expected to be determined following consultations with the family and the President's arrival, according to Andruga. The family is looking forward to the arrival of the President so that a date will be set for the burial.
Key points
- General Joseph Lagu Yanga to be buried in Juba after state funeral
- Lagu played a key role in South Sudan's liberation struggle and politics
- President Salva Kiir Mayardit announced a state funeral in honour of Lagu
