South Sudanese president Salva Kiir Mayardit has joined the rest of the country to mourn departed Chief of Defense Forces Gen. James Ajonga Mawut.

Gen Mawut died on Friday morning in Cairo, Egypt after undergoing a kidney operation. He was supposed to be flown to Germany for further treatment but was denied entry by officials.

In a letter released on Friday, President Kiir praised the fallen genera as a man who served with “dedication and honor.”

“Gen. James Ajonga Mawut was a committed founding member of the Sudan People’s Liberaton Movement and Army. He served this nation with decation and honor and shall be remembered as a hero,” Kiir wrote.

Ajonga was appointed army chief in May 2017, replacing General Paul Malong who had been fired.

“As the passing of Gen. Ajongo shall leave void, we will always remember his life and legacy and take comfort in knowing that his life is resting in eternal peace,” Kiir further wrote.

Details of the deceased’s sendoff have not been divulged yet.