25/06/2025
Brief background of the
Late Hon. Henry Dilah Odwar
The Late Hon. Henry Dilah Odwar was a prominent South Sudanese politician, former Deputy Chairperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), and former Minister of Mining in the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity (R-TGoNU). He hailed from Torit in Eastern Equatoria State and was known for his dedication to the liberation struggle, governance, and the development of South Sudan.
Early Life and Education
Henry Dilah Odwar was born in Torit, Eastern Equatoria, during the early years of Sudan’s struggle for independence. He pursued his education amidst the challenges of war, demonstrating resilience and commitment to learning. His early exposure to the injustices faced by South Sudanese under successive Khartoum regimes influenced his decision to join the liberation movement.
Role in the Liberation Struggle
Odwar was a steadfast member of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLM/A) during the Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005). He contributed to the movement’s political and administrative structures, working alongside key leaders such as Dr. John Garang. His leadership skills earned him respect among his peers, positioning him for significant roles in post-independence South Sudan.
Political Career After Independence
Following South Sudan’s independence in 2011, Odwar remained active in politics. When conflict broke out in December 2013, he aligned himself with the SPLM-IO under Dr. Riek Machar, advocating for reforms and inclusivity in governance.
- Deputy Chairperson of SPLM-IO: Odwar served as the Deputy Chairperson of the SPLM-IO, playing a crucial role in negotiations during the peace talks that led to the signing of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) in 2018.
- Minister of Mining (2020–2021): As part of the power-sharing agreement, he was appointed Minister of Mining in the R-TGoNU. During his tenure, he worked to regulate the mining sector, address illegal mining activities, and promote transparency in resource management. However, he resigned from the position in 2021, citing frustrations with the lack of political will to implement key reforms.
Later Life and Death
After resigning from government, Odwar continued to advocate for peace and good governance in South Sudan. Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with brain cancer and sought medical treatment in Canada, where he passed away on Wednesday, 25th/06/ 2025. His death was mourned by many across South Sudan, particularly in his home state of Eastern Equatoria.
Legacy
Hon. Henry Dilah Odwar will be remembered as a dedicated freedom fighter, a principled politician, and a voice for reform in South Sudan. His contributions to the liberation struggle and post-independence governance remain significant, and his passing marks the loss of a key figure in South Sudan’s political landscape.
May his soul rest in eternal peace. 💔🕊️🕯️🙏
