President Salva Kiir has paid tribute to the late senior diplomat Ruben Marial Benjamin, describing him as a committed patriot and a distinguished son of South Sudan.
President Kiir’s condolence comes days after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced the death of the former ambassador to Israel on 7 May 2026. The cause of death was not disclosed.
President Kiir described the late Marial as a dedicated leader who represented South Sudan with dignity and commitment in various diplomatic assignments in Egypt, the United States and Israel.
He said Marial’s passing at a young age is a painful loss to the country, adding that his experience, patriotism and dedication to public service will be missed.
Marial was married to Agar Daniel Dut Mayen and was a father of seven children.
He belonged to the prominent Benjamin Bil Lual family and was a brother to Dr. Barnaba Marial Benjamin, the former minister in the Office of the President.