Family of Late Steward Sorobo Budia Seeks Cultural and Moral Reparations After Erroneous Appointment
The family of the late South Sudanese politician Steward Sorobo Budia has written to the Office of the President demanding cultural and moral reparations after his name was included in a recent government appointment order, despite his death.
In a letter dated 2 February 2026 and seen by [Radio Tamazuj](chatgpt://generic-entity?number=0), the family said they were “deeply concerned and distressed” by the appointment, describing it as a “serious cultural and spiritual violation.”
The controversy follows a Republican Order that listed the late Mr. Budia as a member of a leadership body connected to dialogue on election-related matters under the peace framework, prompting public confusion and distress among relatives and community members.
Government admits oversight
In a statement issued the same day, the Office of the President acknowledged the error and confirmed that Mr. Budia had died prior to the issuance of the order.
The statement attributed the appointment to an administrative oversight, citing insufficient verification of names submitted during stakeholder consultations. Authorities said steps were being taken to rectify the appointment order and replace the name of the deceased.
The Office of the President also extended condolences to the family and pledged stricter verification procedures to prevent similar errors in future.
Family cites cultural and moral harm
Despite the clarification, the family said the inclusion of their late relative’s name in an official government order caused significant emotional distress and violated cultural norms regarding respect for the dead.
According to the family’s letter, publicly presenting a deceased person as an active political appointee carries spiritual and moral implications in many South Sudanese communities, particularly when done without consultation or acknowledgment of the family.
The family has called for a formal apology and steps they say would constitute appropriate moral and cultural reparations.
Calls for accountability and reform
Civil society figures and cultural commentators said the incident highlights weaknesses in vetting and record-keeping during sensitive political processes. They argue that, beyond correcting the order, authorities should demonstrate respect for cultural values and affected families through a transparent response.
South Sudan Press understands the family is awaiting a formal response from the Office of the President. This story may prompt broader discussion about consultation, verification, and cultural sensitivity in state decision-making.
South Sudan Press will continue to follow developments.