By Manas James Okony
Prominent liberation war veteran, General Stephen Ogut Obongo, was laid to rest with full military honors at the Martyrs’ Cemetery in Juba on Tuesday morning.
Gen. Ogut, a military figure in South Sudan’s fight for independence, passed away on May 8, 2025, at a hospital in the capital, Juba, after a brief illness. He was 87 years old.
Gen. Ogut’s military career spanned decades and included crucial roles in both the Anyanya-I movement and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA).
Born in 1938 in Akobo, Jonglei State, Ogut played an instrumental role in the early stages of the liberation struggle that aimed to combat marginalization and oppression of the southern Sudanese by successive northern governments.
His contributions began in the late 1950s when he joined the Jo Keem (or Jeydor), a precursor to the Anyanya-I guerrilla movement that emerged in response to escalating tensions and conflicts.
During the funeral, Defense Minister Gen. Chol Thon led the army in honoring the legacy of the fallen general. A range of community members and dignitaries attended, including TNLA lawmaker and former Inspector General of Police, Gen. David Okwier Akway.
One deceased’s widow and family representative, Apuodho Ojulu Okoth highlighted the family’s gratitude for the support shown by President Salva Kiir, who recognized Gen. Ogut’s service and sacrifice.
“As a family, we are honored that the president extended us condolences eulogizing Gen. Ogut as a friend and colleague. His military service and legacy will continue living among us,” she stated.
Hon. Apuodho, who also serves as the deputy speaker in the Jonglei State legislative assembly, urges unity among South Sudanese as a tribute for Gen. Ogut’s contribution to liberation efforts.
Gen. David Okwier reflected on the loss of his former colleague, expressing heartfelt sorrow at Ogut’s passing.
“General Ogut was instrumental in the formation of Anyanya-I in Upper Nile in the early 1960s when we were still students. His contributions as a liberator and a good-hearted man will never be forgotten,” he noted.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Ogut’s strategic military involvement continued, including a notable role in the re-capture of Pochalla in 1983, where his diplomatic intervention prevented unnecessary bloodshed.
His remarkable journey in the military included training in various locations, such as Asmara and Israel, and held significant posts through different regimes.
After a brief retirement, Ogut returned to military service in 1996, during which he defected to the SPLA, further solidifying his commitment to the liberation of South Sudan.
He held leadership positions within the SPLA until his 2010 election as a Member of Parliament for Akobo County in the Jonglei State Legislative Assembly, a position held until his death.
The final prayers for Gen. Ogut will take place at Juba’s Medan Simba on Saturday, May 24, commemorating not just a leader but a patriot whose sacrifices have shaped the history of South Sudan. His legacy as a military strategist and a dedicated liberator will be remembered by many in the country as they continue to navigate their path toward peace and stability.