UN mourns South African peace advocate Nicholas Haysom

UN mourns South African peace advocate Nicholas Haysom
Nokuthula Khanyile
Thu, 03/19/2026 - 07:30




























JOHANNESBURG - South African Constitutional lawyer and United Nations diplomat Nicholas 'Fink' Haysom has died.
Secretary General Antonio Gutteres has paid tribute to the 73-year-old, as a tireless peacemaker and champion of the values of the United Nations.
Haysom served as Special Representative for South Sudan, taking over the role in 2021 from Michael Keating of the United Kingdom. 

UN Secretary-General @antonioguterres issued a statement on the passing of Nicholas “Fink” Haysom.
His legacy "will endure in the peace processes he advanced, the institutions he strengthened & the principles he helped bring to life around the world." https://t.co/MeSMZrsKfm pic.twitter.com/lNxUi0OLZy
— UN News (@UN_News_Centre) March 18, 2026

He had an extensive international career focused on democratic governance, constitutional and electoral reform and peace building.
In addition to his distinguished international career, Haysom served Nelson Mandela's chief legal advisor throughout his presidency.