Governor Riek Bim. (-)

Unity State Governor has described Rev. Mathew Mathiang Deng as a “beacon of hope and inspiration” who touched the lives of many – a day after the national lawmaker died of cholera in Bentiu.

Rev. Mathiang, a legislator representing Koch and Guit constituencies in Unity State at the national parliament, passed away on December 25, 2024 at the age of 76 years after contracting cholera.

His son Manasseh Mathiang said the MP – who was on an official visit to Bentiu – was hospitalized before his death despite the effort of medical personal trying to save his life.

In a press statement, Governor Bim conveyed his condolences to Rev. Mathiang whom he said was a dedicated leader and a beloved servant of the people.

“Rev. Deng was a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. His unwavering commitment to the values of peace, justice and harmony guided his work in the assembly and the church,” he said.

“As a spiritual leader, he touches the lives of many and conveyed wisdom and compassion in all he does. Rev. Deng’s legacy will live in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.”

Until his death, late Rev. Mathiang was a national lawmaker representing Koch and Guit constituencies in Unity State at the national parliament.

He was formerly the moderator and peace and advocacy coordinator of the Presbyterian church.

He has also served as leader of the Western Nuer Community, former chairperson of Jagey Community, and deputy leader of Nuer Leadership Forum. He is survived by several sons and daughters.

A catastrophic cholera outbreak is threatening to spiral out of control in the flood-stricken state after health authorities reported 5,403 cases and more than 101 related deaths since the outbreak was declared in October 2024.

John Mut, Director General of the state Ministry of Health said the death toll has sharply risen from 70 people on Sunday to nearly 100 as of December 23, 2024 – amid an insufficient response.

Mr. Mut narrated that the outbreak is worsened by open defecation, flooding and the overcrowding at displacement camps.

According to him, the state health facilities face a serious lack of oral rehydration solutions and insufficient vaccines.

The cholera outbreak, declared in October 2024, has spread rapidly, with increasing infections and fatalities, particularly in IDP camps and POC sites in Juba, Rubkona, and northern South Sudan.

At a cabinet meeting on December 13, Information Minister Michael Makuei described the situation as alarming and stressed the Ministry of Health’s call for the public to maintain hygiene and consume warm food to help prevent further spread of the disease.