Former Lake State Government Passed Away

Juba, South Sudan

Sept 20, 2016(Nyamilepedia) —- Late Hon. John Lat Zachariah, the First Governor of Lakes State, has passed away on Saturday in the morning hours in Juba after a short illness.

According to eyewitness who spoke to Nyamilepedia press, the late governor complained of being unwell and suddenly died before he was rushed to Hospital for medical attention.

The late Hon. Lat who hails from Cueibet, a County in the newly created ‘Gok State’, was the first Governor of Lakes State after the formation of the Government of Southern Sudan in 2005.

Late Hon Lat held several positions including Directorate of Military Intelligence and Directorate of Logistics and Procurement in Sudan People’s Liberation Army/Movement (SPLA/M).

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Hundreds of mourners shared their sadness following an  abrupt and tragic dead of Late Hon. Lat on South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation, newspapers and various social media, the people of Greater Lakes States and the family of the ex-governor have joined in mourning for a great hero.

It was reported by media sources in May 5, 2015, the South Sudanese president Salva Kiir has issued directives suspending two senior military officers at the ministry of defence over financial scandal amid fears they may also be arrested.

Lieutenant General Bior Ajang Duot, under-secretary at the ministry of defense and veteran affairs and major general John Lat Zachariah, director for procurement at the ministry of defense were placed on suspension over corruption.

They were further barred from leaving the country without the knowledge and approval of the chief of general staff, Gen. Paul Malong Awan, and the commander in chief of the regular forces, President Salva Kiir.

Several presidential aides and military sources indicated the officials were suspended on the recommendation by the army’s chief Awan following discovery of documents seeking approval of money for services whose delivery was not verified and without the knowledge of the top army chief.

Many former rebel generals, like the late Lat Zachariah, have held several positions under Salva Kiir leadership, both in the army and as well as in civilian positions, sometimes simultaneously, however, they have no life insurance or will that would support their families after their death.

At least 10 high ranking senior generals have died from illness or killed at the front lines within the last 5 years of South Sudan independent.

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