Major-General Matur Chut Dhuol, the appointed governor of Lakes State, was hospitalized in Germany after suffering chest pain and has undergone surgery, according to state officials.

At a press conference in Rumbek, the State Minister of Information Dut Makoi Kuok admitted that the governor has been out of the state since August for a chest surgery. He described the operation as “minor,” however, noting also that it was successful.

The minister explained that the governor was having minor pain in his chest which required operation from abroad and that is why he went to Germany for the operation. He said he has been in contact with the governor who is doing fine.

Dut further stated that the governor will return to South Sudan within a week. He appreciates the citizens and state officials for standing behind the governor during the time of surgery. He urged them to remain calm as the governor will be back to Lakes State very soon.