JUBA, South Sudan, Aug. 19, 2024 — General Marial Chanuong paid tribute to the late Ambassador General Bior Ajang Duot, praising him as a true commander and patriot during a memorial service at the late Ambassador’s residence. The six-day event brought together family, friends, and dignitaries to honor the life and contributions of Gen. Bior, a key figure in South Sudan’s independence struggle.
Gen. Chanuong, reflecting on his time working with the late Ambassador in Bilpham, lauded Gen. Bior’s leadership and character. “He was a good man with the qualities of a true leader,” Chanuong said in a heartfelt tribute. He emphasized the significant loss that Gen. Bior’s passing represents for the nation, noting his tireless efforts to improve the lives of the South Sudanese people. “He never rested, even after independence, and continued to work for the betterment of our country,” Chanuong added.
Recalling the historical context, Gen. Chanuong spoke about the creation of the National Anthem and the irony of those who had not participated in the liberation struggle now benefiting from its fruits. He called for continued unity and collaboration among South Sudanese citizens, emphasizing the responsibility of current and future generations to uphold the ideals for which Gen. Bior and others had fought.
In a personal message, Gen. Chanuong encouraged the late Ambassador’s children to build a lasting friendship with his own, promising to remain a close and supportive ally to Gen. Bior’s family.
Also in attendance was U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan Michael J. Adler, who extended his deepest condolences to the family and friends of the late Ambassador. Ambassador Adler described Gen. Bior as a man of great respect and honor, recalling their meeting at Emmanuel Parish in Juba, where the late General’s respectful demeanor left a lasting impression.
The memorial service was a somber moment for the South Sudanese community as they paid their final respects to a leader who had played a pivotal role in shaping the young nation’s history.
