By Alan Clement
Governor Simon Ober Mawut of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, has reaffirmed the state government’s support for families of fallen heroes.
He made the remarks during a commemorative event held in Udhum, Mariem West payam in honor of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the liberation struggle on July 30th, 2025 marking the 20th anniversary of Dr. John Garang de Mabior’s death.
“We gather not only to honor the past, but to commit ourselves to those left behind, families who carry the weight of sacrifice made for our freedom,” governor Mawut stated.
The martyrs’ day celebration was held in Mariem in honor and recognition of the pivotal leadership and wisdom of the late Paramount Chief Kuach Kon popularly known as Mayiel (1867-1982).
The high-profile ceremony attracted a broad spectrum of participants, ranging from State Advisors, Cabinet Ministers, and heads of Independent Commissions to national and state legislators. Also in attendance were the Undersecretary for Veterans Affairs, senior security officials, and delegates from youth, women’s organizations, and grassroots communities.
Governor Mawut affirmed that Martyrs Day would be preserved as a cornerstone of state commemorations not only as a solemn reflection on sacrifice, but as a driving force to strengthen support structures for the families of the fallen. “Their legacy must live through our deeds, not just our words,” he stated.