Mathew Mathiang Deng, a member of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly representing Unity State’s Koch County and Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in West Upper Nile, passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 76 after contracting cholera in Bentiu.
Unity State Governor Justice Riek Bilm Top confirmed the legislator’s death, stating that he had traveled to the state on a peace mission.
“Cholera claimed the life of our father, Mathew Mathiang Deng, today (Wednesday) during the Christmas celebrations in Bentiu Town. He contracted the disease after arriving in Bentiu for a peace mission on Monday,” the governor said. “His remains are currently at Bentiu Hospital, where he passed away. The late Hon. Rev. Mathiang was a respected figure, renowned for his commitment to serving his community, the church, and the nation. His sudden death has left many in mourning across South Sudan and beyond. My condolences to the family.”
The governor described the late legislator as a great leader who served the nation with distinction in various capacities.
The cholera outbreak in Unity State has overwhelmed health facilities, with thousands of cases reported in recent weeks. The loss of such a prominent figure highlights the severity of the health crisis in the region.
Manasseh Mathiang, the elder son of the deceased and an exiled activist, expressed his grief in a statement: “It is with profound sadness that I inform you of the passing of our father, Hon. Rev. Mathew Mathiang Deng, who died this (Wednesday) morning in Bentiu, South Sudan. We are comforted by the legacy of service he leaves behind for the community, the church, and the nation.”
Mathew Mathiang Deng’s dual roles as a parliamentarian and religious leader embodied his lifelong dedication to uplifting others. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, leadership, and unwavering service.
