(Australia) – The family of the late Captain Amat Malual, a close companion and personal bodyguard of South Sudan’s founding leader, Dr John Garang de Mabior, has issued a public appeal to President Salva Kiir Mayardit, requesting state recognition and assistance for their continued welfare.
Captain Malual, who came from Rumbek East in Lakes State, is remembered as one of the early comrades of the Sudan People’s Liberation Army/Movement (SPLA/M). He reportedly joined Dr Garang in the pivotal journey from Khartoum to Torit in May 1983, an event widely regarded as the starting point of South Sudan’s armed struggle for independence.
During the 21-year liberation war, Captain Malual served as Dr Garang’s personal bodyguard, a position that placed him at the heart of many of the SPLA’s most critical decisions and movements. His loyalty and bravery are acknowledged by many within the veteran community.
Tragically, Captain Malual was among those who died alongside Dr Garang in the 2005 helicopter crash, which occurred shortly after the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) that paved the way for South Sudan’s independence.
While the family of Dr Garang has continued to receive national recognition and support, Captain Malual’s relatives say they have been largely forgotten. According to a letter of appeal submitted by Abram Maluer Marial, a graduating student at the University of Juba, the late captain’s family—now residing in Australia—has faced financial and emotional hardships over the years.
In 2021, Captain Malual’s widow, Mrs Victoria Yar Isaac, reportedly travelled to Juba in an effort to seek an audience with the President. However, she was denied access, an incident the family interpreted as a dismissal of their legitimate request for recognition and aid.
The appeal to President Kiir now calls on the government to acknowledge Captain Malual’s role in South Sudan’s liberation and to take concrete steps to support his family, as a matter of fairness and national memory. It stresses that although he did not hold a formal political office, Captain Malual was a critical figure in the armed struggle and deserves posthumous honour equal to those he served beside.
