A member of the Transitional National Legislative Assembly representing Unity State’s Koch County who is also Moderator in the Presbyterian Church in west upper Nile, Mathew Mathiang Deng, died 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 and said the deceased was in the state on a peace mission.
“Cholera killed our father, Mathew Mathiang Deng, today (Wednesday) during the Christmas celebrations in Bentiu Town after he was attacked by cholera disease when he came to Bentiu for a peace mission on Monday.
The dead body of the deceased is still at Bentiu Hospital where he passed away,” he said. “The late Hon. Rev. Mathiang was a respected figure, known for his commitment to serving his community, the church, and the nation. His sudden death has left many mourning across South Sudan and beyond. My condolences to the family.”
The governor described the deceased as a great leader who served the nation with distinction in various capacities.
The cholera outbreak in Unity State has strained health facilities, with thousands of cases reported in recent weeks. The death of such a high-profile figure underscores the severity of the health crisis in the region.
The elder son of the deceased, Manasseh Mathiang, who is an exiled activist, wrote: “It is with profound sadness that I inform you of the passing of our father, Hon. Rev. Matthew Mathiang Deng who passed on this (Wednesday) morning in Bentiu, South Sudan. We are encouraged by his legacy of service to the community, the church, and the nation.”
Mathew Mathiang’s dual role as a parliamentarian and a religious leader reflected his dedication to uplifting the lives of those around him. His legacy is one of faith, leadership, and unwavering service.