Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announces the death of senior diplomat Ruben Marial Benjamin – file photo.

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.