The President of the Republic of South Sudan has acknowledged the contribution of late bishop Caesar Mazzolari towards the struggle for the independence of South Sudan.
Salva Kiir Mayardit sent a message of condolence for the death of Bishop Mazzolari through the Minister of Cabinet Affairs Kosti Manibe.Mr. Manibe attended Thursday’s funeral mass in Rumbek together with his GoSS colleagues David Deng Athorbei and Agnes Lasuba as Mr. Kiir’s delegation.
Mr. Kiir wrote that he had the privilege of having known Bishop Mazzolari personally.
He described the late bishop as a dedicated servant.
The President said bishop Mazzolari will be remembered for his heroic commitment to the struggle of the people of South Sudan for freedom, equality, justice and human dignity.
He recognized the role of Bishop Mazzolari in peace building and reconciliation, revealing that the late bishop was instrumental in mediating the parties during the 1991 split within the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement.
Mr. Kiir also expresses his sadness and sorrow over the death of the bishop, terming it as unfortunate.
The President said Bishop Mazzolari leaves behind a legacy of “deep faith, humility and sincerity” rooted in his great commitment.
Mr. Kiir expresses regrets about the untimely death of the bishop of Rumbek just a few days after the Declaration of independence of the Republic of South Sudan.
The President offered condolences to the family members of the late bishop and prayed that God the Almighty that his soul may rest in eternal peace.
Bishop Mazzolari arrived in Southern Sudan in 1981 at the age of 44.
He served in the Catholic Mission of Nzara, in Western Equatoria, and later as the provincial superior of the Comboni Missionaries in South Sudan.
He was consecrated bishop of Rumbek in 1999 by Pope John Paul II. He had been serving as Apostolic Administrator of Rumbek since 1990.