January 18th 2019 (Nyamilepedia) – A renowned Egyptian journalist has launched a new book for the SPLM founder Dr. John Garang de’Mabior who was, before his death, a Sudanese First Vice-President.
Saly Atef, the Editor-in-chief of the Al-Sabah electronic newspaper and the author of the new book, ‘Mandela of the South: My journey to Juba” told the Nyamilepedia on Thursday that she conducted her three-year research while working for South Sudan government in different capacities.
Dr. John Garang signed the comprehensive peace agreement with the government of Sudan which later let to the separation of South Sudan. After his first return to Khartoum in 2005 since 1983, Garang died in a helicopter crash while on air from a Ugandan airbase heading to new Kush in South Sudan.
Saly Atef was working as information officer for South Sudan consulate in the Egyptian capital Cairo between 2006-2010.
She as well worked as the director of Dream FM in Malakal between 2010-2018
The book deals with various aspects of Dr. John’s life. It covers Dr. Garang’s origin, tribe, where he grew up, his studies and travel abroad, and his high qualifications, which he received in the military and academic fields.
The book as well speaks of a charismatic personality within the Sudanese community until his (Garang) rebellion and dissension from the Sudanese army he was serving by the time.
The book also sheds light on the thorny aspects of the status of the world’s youngest nation from 2010 to 2018 and also speaks about pending issues between Sudan and South Sudan which include but not limited to the demarcation of the border between the Sudans and more importantly, the case of the disputed area of Abyei.
The book, Atef said, will be launched on 23rd and 27th January 2019.
