JUBA, Aug. 22, 2024 — The Dongjol Dinka community in Akoka County, Upper Nile State, is mourning the death of their traditional spiritual leader, Monyjok Deng Ayuel, who passed away on Monday in a Juba hospital at the age of 65 following a brief illness.
Monyjok, who had guided the community’s spiritual affairs for several years, was regarded as a unifying figure during times of division. Diu Ayong, chairperson of the Dongjol community in Upper Nile State, described his death as a significant loss.
“The role of the spiritual leader is ensuring peace and stability. We have lost someone who was a uniting factor for the Dongjol community. He was the official representative of the Ayondit, the greater spirit divine leader,” Ayong told Radio Tamazuj.
Monyjok’s burial will be conducted according to Dongjol traditions in the Rochok area, his stronghold. Ayong noted that the ceremony will be held at night and will be attended only by members of the deceased’s clan. The selection of his successor, who will assume the same spiritual role, will be announced afterward.
Ayong extended condolences to the people of Upper Nile, emphasizing Monyjok’s dedication to peace and stability in both the state and South Sudan.
