Machar pays tribute to liberation icon Joseph Lagu in court

Former First Vice President Dr. Riek Machar has expressed condolences to the family of veteran politician General Joseph Lagu following his death, speaking from the courtroom where he is standing trial.

Machar, the fifth accused in the ongoing Special Court proceedings, conveyed his condolences during the court’s 125th session.

Speaking from the dock, Machar said he wanted to extend his condolences to Lagu’s family and the people of South Sudan.

He described the late general as a freedom fighter, liberator and courageous leader who fought for South Sudan’s freedom.

Machar also recognised Lagu’s role in the struggle for self-rule in South Sudan.

“Joseph Lagu was a liberator, courageous leader who made peace and brought freedom and self-rule, denied his own self-interest, didn’t want to be a leader and South Sudan was led by another person who was not in the liberation,” Machar said.

“He is a great loss to the nation, not only his family, but he will also always remember. May his soul rest in peace.”

General Joseph Lagu died in Juba on Tuesday at the age of 95.