(JUBA) – The Bank of South Sudan (BoSS) has confirmed the passing of its former Governor, Hon. Othom Rago Ajak, who died in Cairo on 17 September 2025 at the age of 70.
His family announced that Ajak, who had been receiving treatment in Egypt, died after a short illness. His daughter, Buchay Ajak, confirmed the news and said arrangements are being made to repatriate his body to Juba, with burial expected next week.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the BoSS Board of Directors, management and staff said they were shocked by the news and extended their condolences to the family. The central bank described Ajak as a man of “warmth and diligence” whose leadership made staff welfare a priority.
Ajak served as Governor of the Bank of South Sudan from January 2017 to May 2018, a period marked by efforts to stabilise the country’s financial system amid difficult economic conditions. He had previously held several senior roles at the bank, including director general and assistant governor.
Born in 1954 in Upper Nile State, Ajak studied economics at the University of Khartoum, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in 1980. He later earned a master’s degree in economics from the American University in Cairo in 1993. His career in finance and public service spanned more than 40 years in both Sudan and South Sudan.
Beyond his central banking career, Ajak contributed to public service in other capacities. He served as a clerk to the National Legislative Assembly between 2011 and 2014 and held government positions in Fashoda and Upper Nile states.
Colleagues and former staff remember him as a leader who valued professional growth and encouraged discipline within the financial sector. His time as governor was noted for attempts to strengthen the bank’s capacity during a period of economic turbulence.
He is survived by his children, grandchildren and extended family. According to his relatives, his remains will arrive in Juba on Monday for funeral services and burial.
The Bank of South Sudan has also extended condolences on the recent passing of Hon. Charles Abdu, the former Deputy Governor for Administration and Finance, who died in Nairobi on 13 September 2025.
Key Facts about Othom Rago Ajak
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Othom Rago Ajak |
| Year of Birth | 1954 |
| Place of Birth | Upper Nile State |
| Education | BA Economics (University of Khartoum, 1980); MA Economics (American University in Cairo, 1993) |
| Career Highlights | Governor of BoSS (2017–2018), Director General, Assistant Governor |
| Other Public Roles | Clerk of the National Legislative Assembly (2011–2014), government posts in Fashoda and Upper Nile |
| Date of Death | 17 September 2025 |
| Place of Death | Cairo, Egypt |
| Age at Death | 70 |
| Survived By | Children, grandchildren, two wives |
| Burial | Expected in Juba, week of 22 September 2025 |