South Sudan Independence Leader Joseph Lagu Dies at 94

President Salva Kiir announced that Joseph Lagu, a former military officer and diplomat who led the independence movement in southern Sudan, died Tuesday in Juba at the age of 94. Kiir called for a period of national mourning to honor the leader's legacy.

Lagu joined the rebels in 1963 and led Anya Nya, the movement's armed wing. He transformed the group into a professional army using equipment and training provided by Israel. His leadership was instrumental in securing an agreement for southern Sudanese autonomy in 1972.

Throughout his career, Lagu held several high-ranking positions, including second vice president of Sudan and president of the High Executive Council of Southern Sudan. In his later years, he advised leaders during the push for South Sudan's full independence in 2011. Despite his contributions, he faced criticism for supporting Omar al-Bashir against investigations by the International Criminal Court.