Western Equatoria citizens on Wednesday gathered at the State Assembly premises in Yambio to pay last tribute to the former speaker Richard Noti Runge who died last Friday at age of 72.
State Governor Bangasi Joseph Bakosoro describes the late Noti as a role model politician for his patience who struggled for peace and self-determination of the people in the state and the country at large, Radio Anisa reported.
He encourages the family of the late to follow his footsteps and keep the widow in her husband’s home instead of sending her away according to the Azande’s traditions.
The Assembly Speaker Bage James Elisa recalls that the late Noti initiated many projects including Yambio Farmers Association and the formation of a committee advocating for upgrading Bangasu Payam to a county hindered by the current situation.
The late Noti’s daughter, Joyce Richard Noti thanked the state government, all churches and the people of Western Equatoria State for the great respect they have shown, noting that her father was a caring person and a strong believer.
The late Richard Noti Runge was the first Speaker of Western Equatoria State Legislative Assembly from 2005 to 2010.