Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday presided over the swearing-in of James Koang Chuol as Governor of Upper Nile State, urging immediate action to restore peace and stability in the conflict-affected region.
Speaking during the ceremony, President Kiir emphasized the urgent need to end violence and called on communities to embrace reconciliation and unity. He tasked the new governor with addressing insecurity and fostering cohesion among divided groups.
“I urge you to go and bring peace, stability, and unity to the people of Upper Nile,” Kiir said, pledging full government support to ensure the governor succeeds in his mandate.
Lt. Gen. Koang replaces Jacob Dollar Ruot, who previously relocated the state capital to Nasir an area that became a focal point of conflict in recent years.
Leaders from Upper Nile who attended the event welcomed the appointment, expressing optimism that Koang would help stabilize the State. They also called for accountability and proposed a broad peace and reconciliation conference to address long-standing grievances among communities.
The leadership change comes amid continued security challenges in Upper Nile, driven by tensions involving the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) and allied youth militias, including the White Army.
Observers say the new governor faces an immediate test in managing fragile security dynamics while advancing dialogue and rebuilding trust across the State.
