UN Mourns the Death of its Head of Mission in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom

Sudanhorizon – Agencies

The United Nations Mission to South Sudan (UNMISS) announced on Thursday the death of its head, Nicholas Haysom, describing him as a principled leader who dedicated his life to peace and justice.

According to officials, Haysom, a South African known as “Vink,” died in New York City at the age of 73.

The mission’s statement read that it is with deep sadness that they announce the passing of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom.

Haysom, who assumed his post as head of the UN mission in South Sudan in January 2021, brought with him decades of experience with the United Nations, having served in countries including Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. He also played a pivotal role in South Africa’s transition to democracy, serving as constitutional and legal advisor to the late President Nelson Mandela between 1994 and 1999.

The mission described the deceased as a “seasoned mediator, diplomat, and constitutional expert” who played key roles in promoting peace processes and governance reforms in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

Recalling his early life, the mission noted that his principles were shaped in South Africa, where he was an anti-apartheid activist and human rights lawyer, emphasizing that “his passion for justice fueled his dedication to public service, democracy, and the rule of law.”

For his part, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his deep sadness at Haysom’s passing, describing him as a principled lawyer and tireless peacemaker.

He said: “Mr. Haysom dedicated his life to justice, dialogue, and reconciliation, combining in every mission profound legal insight, sound political judgment, and an unwavering commitment to improving people’s lives.”

Haysom previously served as the Special Representative of former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). He also worked for many years as Director of Political, Peacekeeping, and Humanitarian Affairs in Ban Ki-moon’s office in New York and served for two years at the United Nations Office in Iraq. Prior to joining the UN, he participated in the Burundi peace talks (1999–2002) and served as an advisor in the Sudanese peace talks (2002–2005).

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