Kiir hails Norway’s King Harald as true friend of South Sudan

JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit has mourned the death of Norway’s King Harald V, describing the late monarch as a personal friend and a strong supporter of South Sudan’s struggle for freedom.

King Harald V died on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Oslo University Hospital at the age of 89.

He had reigned since 1991 and was widely regarded as a popular and unifying figure who helped modernize Norway’s monarchy.

In a condolence message on Saturday, Kiir said his friendship with King Harald was forged through the monarch’s deep commitment to the freedom of South Sudan.

“I am disheartened by the news of the passing of His Majesty King Harald V of Norway. King Harald was a personal friend whose friendship was forged from his deep commitment to the freedom of South Sudan. In his death, South Sudan has lost one of its true friends,” Kiir said.

Kiir conveyed his condolences to the late king’s family, the Norwegian people, and others around the world mourning his death.

“At this moment of sadness for the Kingdom of Norway, I convey my deep sympathies to His Majesty’s family, his Norwegian people, and all those who are grieving his passing across the globe,” he said.

Kiir described King Harald as a compassionate humanitarian who devoted vital resources to supporting South Sudan during difficult periods.

Kiir also praised the late monarch for modernizing the Norwegian monarchy and fostering an inclusive society, saying his legacy would continue to shape Norway.

“His legacy as the king who modernized the Norwegian monarchy by fostering an inclusive society will continue to shape Norway,” he said.

“For us in South Sudan, King Harald will always be remembered as a compassionate humanitarian who devoted enormous resources to support us during our hour of need.”

He said King Harald’s leadership earned him the reputation of being “the king of the people” and expressed hope that his legacy would continue to inspire people committed to serving others.

“As the world and Norwegians mourn his death, may his rich legacy of affectionate leadership that earned him the name “the king of the people” continue to inspire those who aspire to do good among us,” he said.

“I pray that God grants the royal family and the people of Norway the solace they need to cope with this moment of immense grief.”

Before taking the throne, Harald was a passionate athlete and Olympic sailor who competed at multiple Games.

He later won numerous international regattas, including the World Championships in sailing in 1987.

He became king in 1991 following the death of his father, Olav V, and spent more than three decades steering Norway through enormous social change.