Members of South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA), government officials, members of the judiciary, relatives, friends, and mourners gathered in Juba to pay their final respects to the late Justice Ambrose Riiny Thiik during an emotional parliamentary tribute session.
The solemn ceremony at the national parliament saw lawmakers lining up beside the casket of the veteran jurist, with several MPs snapping commemorative photos in honor of a man widely described as one of South Sudan’s respected legal minds and national figures.
Justice Riiny, remembered for his long service in the judiciary and commitment to justice and nation-building, was praised for his professionalism, wisdom, and contribution to strengthening the country’s legal institutions.
The tribute session drew senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, judiciary representatives, and ordinary citizens, many of whom described the late justice as a patriotic figure whose legacy would remain alive in South Sudan’s legal history.
Meanwhile, Rt. Hon. Speaker Joseph Ngere Paciko also conveyed heartfelt condolences over the sudden passing of veteran diplomat Ambassador Ruben Marial Benjamin, describing him as a towering figure in South Sudan’s liberation struggle and post-independence nation-building efforts.
In an official condolence message issued from the Office of the Speaker, Ngere said Ambassador Ruben Marial was “not merely a diplomat, but a giant of our nation’s history.”
“He stood with our people during the darkest years of the Liberation Struggle. He was present at the historic signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement in 2005, and he labored tirelessly in nation building following our hard-won independence,” the statement read.
The Speaker further praised the late ambassador’s wisdom, dignity, and unwavering service to the country, saying his contributions would never be forgotten.
Quoting the Bible, Ngere comforted mourners with the verse from John 11:25, saying: “I am the resurrection and the life.
He who believes in Me, though he may die, yet shall he live.”
He prayed for eternal peace and mercy upon the late ambassador, adding: “The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away; blessed be His name forever.”
The deaths of Justice Ambrose Riiny Thiik and Ambassador Ruben Marial Benjamin have sparked an outpouring of grief across South Sudan, with leaders and citizens continuing to honor their legacy of public service, patriotism, and dedication to the nation.
