Jonglei State debunks reports alleging Governor’s death

BOR – The Government of South Sudan’s Jonglei State has dismissed as false and misleading widespread reports claiming that Governor Riek Gai Kok had died while receiving treatment in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi.

The governor was flown to Nairobi on Tuesday after falling ill and was admitted to the hospital for specialised medical care.

Shortly after news of his transfer emerged, unverified claims began circulating on social media and in some media outlets alleging that he had passed away at a hospital in the Kenyan capital. The reports sparked confusion and concern among residents of Jonglei and beyond.

In an official press statement, Manath Gany Lual, Press Secretary in the Office of the Governor, categorically refuted the claims, describing them as baseless and irresponsible.

“The Office of the Press Unit, Jonglei State, categorically refutes and discredits the false information currently circulating in certain media outlets alleging that His Excellency Governor Riek Gai has passed away at Nairobi Hospital,” the statement read.

According to the press unit, Governor Gai is alive, in stable condition, and responding positively to treatment. Officials further noted that his health is steadily improving under medical supervision and that he is expected to resume his official duties once he has fully recovered.

“We hereby clarify that Governor Riek Gai is alive, in stable condition, and receiving appropriate medical care. His health continues to improve, and he is expected to resume his official duties in due course,” the statement added.

The governor’s office described the circulating death reports as deliberate misinformation intended to cause unnecessary panic and alarm among the public. Authorities urged citizens to disregard the rumours and to exercise caution when consuming or sharing unverified information online.

The statement also called on media practitioners to uphold professional standards by verifying information before publication, emphasising the importance of responsible reporting in maintaining peace and public trust.