John Woul Makec


John Woul Makec was a South Sudanese jurist and academic who served as the first chief justice of the Republic of South Sudan.

Early life and education

Details about Makec's early life and education are limited in public records. However, it is known that he served in various judicial capacities in Sudan prior to South Sudan's independence, gaining extensive experience in the legal field.

Judicial career

Makec's judicial career was marked by significant contributions to the legal systems of both Sudan and South Sudan. Before South Sudan's independence, he served at various levels within the Sudanese judiciary, including as Deputy President of the National Constitutional Court in Khartoum.
In 2007, following the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, Makec was appointed as the president of the Supreme Court of Southern Sudan. Upon South Sudan's independence in 2011, he became the first chief justice of the newly formed Republic of South Sudan. He served in this capacity until his retirement on 15 August 2011, when he was succeeded by Chan Reec Madut.

Academic contributions

After retiring from the judiciary, Makec dedicated himself to legal education. He joined the University of Juba's School of Law as a lecturer, where he was involved in teaching and supervising research students. His commitment to legal education was recognized in 2014 when he was awarded an honorary professorship by the university.

Legacy

Makec is remembered for his unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law. His efforts in establishing an independent judiciary in South Sudan have had a lasting impact on the country's legal system. Colleagues and students alike have praised his humility, legal acumen, and dedication to public service.

Death

John Woul Makec died on 17 January 2017 in Juba, South Sudan. His death was widely mourned across the nation, with tributes highlighting his significant contributions to the judiciary and legal education in South Sudan.