University of Juba VC recalls Joseph Lagu’s 1972 peace promise
University of Juba Vice Chancellor Professor John Akec has paid tribute to late liberation hero General Joseph Lagu Yanga, recalling a childhood memory of his return to Gogrial following the signing of the 1972 Addis Ababa Peace Agreement.
In a condolence message, Professor Akec said he was a young boy when he ran barefoot with other children to the airstrip in Gogrial to welcome Lagu and fellow liberation fighter General Kuol Amuom.
He recalled Lagu standing atop an open military vehicle in the public square, addressing men, women and children about the promise of peace.
“The peace we have signed with Khartoum Government will bring freedom, hope and a bright future for all of you, and our children,” Akec quoted Lagu as saying.
Professor Akec said that promise was ultimately fulfilled on July 9, 2011, when South Sudan gained independence.
He described Lagu affectionately as “Uncle Makungu,” saying the veteran liberation leader had completed his journey with faith and dedication.
“Rest in peace Uncle Makungu, you have run the race, you have kept the faith,” Akec wrote.
Lagu, a former leader of the Anyanya One movement, died in Juba at the age of 95, leaving behind a legacy shaped by the first liberation struggle and the long pursuit of South Sudan’s self-determination.
