South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Benjamin Takpiny
President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Thursday visited the Vatican Embassy in Juba to pay tribute to the late Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday.
Kiir signed the condolence book, expressing heartfelt condolences on behalf of the nation and honoring the Pope’s lifelong commitment to peace and harmony, said a statement posted on Facebook page of the presidential press unit.
Pope Francis had a profound relationship with the people of South Sudan.
In February 2023, he became the first Pope to visit the country, urging its citizens to pursue reconciliation and lasting peace.
This visit followed his historic gesture in 2019, when he welcomed South Sudanese leaders to the Vatican and knelt to kiss their feet, appealing for unity and an end to fighting.
Kiir described Pope Francis as a true servant of humanity and a steadfast friend of South Sudan, whose legacy will continue to inspire efforts toward national reconciliation.
The President emphasized that South Sudan held a special place in the Pope’s heart, and his efforts have left an indelible mark on the country’s history.
As the nation mourns, flags were flown at half-mast and citizens joined in remembering a global icon of peace and compassion.
