08/08/2026
: Late Col. John Matiop Ajak
Late Col. John Matiop Ajak was a distinguished and disciplined officer of the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA/SSPDF) . Hailing from the Pan Kuol clan of Nyopiny. He was born in Pagok, Ajuong Payam, Twi East County, his mother comes to Apajok Yak from Awulian, Patem. He was Characterized by iron discipline, tactical resolve, and steadfast commitment to the liberation struggle, Col. Matiop’s military career spanned critical chapters of the Second Sudanese Civil War.
Before joining the organized ranks of the armed resistance, Col. Matiop served within conventional military structures. Displaying early opposition to systemic oppression and authoritarian rule, he actively participated in the 1985 failed coup attempt in Khartoum. Demonstrating ideological alignment with the aspirations of marginalized populations, he defected to join the SPLA in 1985, bringing professional tactical experience into the liberation ranks.
Col. Matiop was officially commissioned into the rank of 2nd Lieutenant under the elite ZalZal Battalion a formidable formation known for its operational tenacity in high-intensity combat zones. His leadership and tactical proficiency were severely tested in 1992 around Ngalngala, when he sustained critical combat injuries, suffering a severe skull wound in action from shrapnel of the bomb dropped by the Antinov. Through sheer resilience and prompt evacuation, he survived the trauma, returning to active service following his recovery.
Late Col. John was a specialist in heavy weaponry, he served with distinction in the Artillery Division, delivering vital fire support and strategic combat engineering for infantry operations. As part of his operational deployments, he was stationed at Newsite in Eastern Equatoria, a critical command and logistics stronghold for the SPLA High Command.
Col. John Matiop Ajak remains remembered across the military establishment as a symbol of steadfast discipline, tactical courage, and unwavering dedication to the sovereign Cause.
May his soul continue to rest in peace.
