Cdr Martin Manyiel Ayuel Akech
Martin Manyiel, born in 1942 in South Sudan, was the first of eight children. He completed his education despite school closures during the Anya Anya War. Joining the Sudan Military College in 1971, he rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel. Engaging in political activities, he was part of the Underground Movement against President Nimeri's policies.
In 1983, though part of the Bor Town rebellion, Martin initially stayed behind due to deployment. He later defected to the SPLA in 1985, transforming its war operations. Appointed to various roles, he became critically ill in 1987, facing challenges in seeking medical treatment. The split in the SPLM/SPLA in 1991 led to tensions, and Martin, after a heated exchange with Dr. John Garang, was sent to Germany for treatment against his wishes. Unfortunately, he died in Nairobi in 1992, buried in Torit Town, Eastern Equatoria.