South Sudan army chief dies, three days national mourning to be observed

The Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) chief of defence forces, Gen James Ajongo has passed on, government has announced.

Gen Ajongo passed on Friday Morning in Cairo, Egypt, following a short illness. The president on South Sudan, Salva Kiir Mayadirt in a condolence message to Ajongo’s family said the deceased was a remarkable man and committed founding member of SPLA

“On my behalf and on behalf of my family, the Sudan People’s Liberation Army, and the government of the People of South Sudan, I offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of General James Ajongo. We join you in grief and pray that God’s peace be with you all during this difficult moment,” Kiir said.

“General James Ajongo Mawut was a remarkable man and committed founding member of Sudan People’s Liberation Movement and Army. He served this nation with dedication and honor and shall be remembered as hero,” Kiir added.

Consequently, Sudan will observe three days of official mourning with flags hosted at half-mast and Gen Ajongo accorded a state funeral.

General Ajongo was sworn in May last year as the new SPLA army chief, a day after South Sudan President Salva Kiir fired his predecessor, General Paul Malong, with no explanation.

 

Like Malong, Ajongo is from Aweil in the former Northern Bahr el Ghazal State. He served the SPLA since 1983.