By Philip Buda Ladu
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has congratulated Cardinal Robert Prevost on his election as Pope Leo XIV, the first US-born pontiff.
In a message released on May 9th, 2025, President Kiir addressed his congratulations to “His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, Vatican City,” expressing the sentiments of the government and the people of South Sudan.
“Your Holiness, on behalf of the government and people of the Republic of South Sudan, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Your Holiness in your election as the successor of St. Peter to Shepherd, the Universal Church,” President Kiir heartfelt message read.
He emphasized the global significance of Pope Leo XIV’s election, noting.
“Your elevation to the papacy is a profound moment of spiritual significance, not only for the Catholic faithful but also for people of goodwill across the globe. We in South Sudan receive this news with great joy and renewed hope for peace, unity and moral leadership in a world facing many challenges.” He continued.
The Head of State also paid tribute to the late Pope Francis, acknowledging his “legacy of love, humility, and tireless advocacy for peace.”
Kiir specifically highlighted Pope Francis’s historic 2023 pilgrimage to South Sudan, alongside other Christian leaders, as a “powerful symbol of solidarity, reconciliation, and encouragement to our people in their quest for lasting peace.”
“Your Holiness, we pray that God may guide you with wisdom and grace as you lead the global Church in advancing compassion, justice and human dignity,” President Kiir concluded, wishing Pope Leo XIV “good health, strength and grace from the Almighty God.”
Pope Leo XIV’s Election
Cardinal Robert Prevost, a 69-year-old from Chicago, was elected as Pope and he became Pope Leo XIV, on 8th May, 2025. He is the first US-born pontiff.
With extensive missionary experience in South America and dual citizenship in the US and Peru, Pope Leo XIV is expected to continue the reforms initiated by his predecessor.
His election has garnered widespread congratulations from world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, who hailed it as a “great honor for the country.”