Senior officials pay tribute to former Petroleum Undersecretary Mayen Wol Jong

Senior government officials have paid tribute to former Undersecretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, Mayen Wol Jong, who died in Nairobi, Kenya, on August 4, 2026.

His remains arrived in Juba on Sunday, August 9, where they were received by President Salva Kiir Mayardit and senior government officials at Juba International Airport.

Officials described Mayen Wol Jong as a dedicated public servant whose contribution to South Sudan spanned government, legislation, community engagement and the country’s independence process.

National Minister of Wildlife, Conservation and Tourism Denya Jok Chagor described the late Mayen as a man known for his humility, warmth and ability to maintain relationships despite disagreements.

“He can disagree with you or you can argue with him, but he will never lose his sense of humor. He will never lose who he is,” Chagor said.

He described Mayen Wol Jong as a statesman, brother and father figure who contributed to communities across South Sudan.

“We the South Sudanese also know him as our statesman, as also our brother, as also a father, as somebody who has a lot to contribute to our Republic of South Sudan.”

First Deputy Speaker of the Council of States Mary Ayen Majok highlighted Mayen’s contribution to the legislative process and his work raising awareness among communities in oil-producing areas.

“I will only limit myself to just mentioning some of his contributions, but I will mention two significant contributions Honorable Mayen did in enhancing the legislation process and raising awareness for the communities, and in particular the oil-producing areas,” she said.

Warrap State Governor Bol Wek Agoth also paid tribute to Mayen, highlighting his role in South Sudan’s electoral and referendum processes.

Governor Bol said Mayen was among officials who helped facilitate the 2010 elections while serving in the Office of the President.

He also said Mayen contributed to both the 2010 self-determination referendum process and the 2011 referendum that paved the way for South Sudan’s independence.

“If you want to talk about the independence of South Sudan, Mayen Wol was both in the 2010 and 2011 referendum. That has got us where we are enjoying as the Republic of South Sudan,” Bol said.

Mayen Wol Jong was also an academic, holding a Master’s degree in Law from the United Kingdom, according to the governor.

His death has drawn tributes from government officials and colleagues, who have remembered him for his public service and contribution to South Sudan’s political and institutional development.