Before Joseph died in Egypt, he ensured his final wishes were protected and obeyed (Genesis 50:24-25). As second-in-command, Joseph was accorded a state burial in Egypt, but 400 years later, Israel exhumed his remains and carried them to Canaan, the Promised Land. Israel never allowed their leaders to be laid to rest just anywhere or carelessly. Today, General Lagu’s death has divided the nation in two because of decisions made by sycophants who intend to erase his legacy. In this article, I outline why Lagu’s body should be taken home as soon as President Kiir leaves office. Land Protection and Security General Lagu’s grave would act as a powerful barrier against land occupation by outsiders. Although the Madi community may face conflicts, his physical presence will inspire the Madi people to double their strength and fight tirelessly against any invasion. Furthermore, the soldiers deployed to guard his grave would naturally heighten security alertness in the area. This critical d...
A deeply respected man who deserved the highest honour in South Sudan and the world, General Joseph Lagu Yanga has passed away, leaving his community feeling sidelined by his own leaders. I hesitated to write about his death because his life and political weight are difficult to capture in words. However, the circumstances surrounding his burial have forced me to speak out. The Promotion to Full General. President Salva Kiir posthumously promoted Mukungu (General) Lagu to full general. Such honorary promotions usually go to officers who die in active service or were intentionally blocked from advancement during their careers. While he certainly deserved recognition, the highest honour would have been best bestowed upon him while he was alive. Promoting him from Lieutenant General to full general now feels meaningless—a gesture that serves little purpose other than to appease political observers. The State Burial. There is no doubt that General Lagu deserves an unconditional state b...