JUBA, South Sudan — Maj. Gen. Zechariah Akoi Yak Deng, a senior commander in the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), died early Saturday morning at Gudele Hospital in Juba. He was 2 a.m. The general succumbed to liver disease despite undergoing a successful liver transplant in New Delhi, India, last year.
A family member disclosed that his illness began earlier this week, presenting symptoms similar to malaria, including excessive vomiting. He was rushed to the hospital, but efforts to save his life were unsuccessful.
General Akoi underwent a liver transplant at Apollo Hospital in 2023, with his daughter, Abuot-thii Akoi Yak, serving as the donor. A follow-up surgery was conducted in 2024, which had also been deemed successful.
The news of his death has left his family, friends, and colleagues stunned, especially given his apparent recovery after the surgeries.
General Akoi served in key positions within the SSPDF, including as Commander of Division 11 and Commander of the Military Police. His decades-long service made him a respected figure in the military and public spheres.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
