Ex-Lakes State Governor Matur Chut dies in Juba

JUBA – Matur Chut, the former governor of South Sudan’s Lakes State, passed away on Tuesday in the capital city, Juba, as confirmed by a senior state government official on Wednesday.

Lakes State Information Minister Paul Cabiet shared with Sudans Post that Chut had been battling kidney failure, and there were preliminary plans to seek medical treatment for him abroad before his untimely death.

“He was suffering from kidney problems, and there were plans for him to be taken to India for treatment, but due to the progression of the issue, he passed away yesterday in Juba,” he said.

Chut, aged 69, succumbed to the health complications.

The senior government official revealed that preparations are underway to receive Chut’s body at his residence in Pakong Payam, where the former governor is slated to be laid to rest.

“Now, many people, including a committee formed by Governor Rin Tueny Mabor for his burial, are at Pakong Payam, and he will be buried there,” he said.

Matur Chut assumed the role of governor of Lakes State in 2013 and later became the governor of the now-defunct Western Lakes State in 2017, following the restructuring of South Sudan into 32 states by the head of state.

His tenure lasted until 2019 when he was removed from office through a decree issued by President Kiir.