The government of Upper Nile State said on Tuesday it has temporarily moved its capital from Malakal to Nasir County following displacement caused by fighting in the area last year.
State Information Minister Peter Ngwojo said an advance team overseeing the relocation has already arrived in the town of Nasir, and the governor is expected to follow shortly.
“The advanced team has successfully reached Nasir, and preparations are underway as the governor plans to join them to ensure continuity of government services,” Ngwojo said.
He said the state government will use Nasir as a temporary capital, reassuring residents and humanitarian partners about the security situation.
“Nasir is safe, and we urge NGOs and the public to remain calm and continue their activities as the government is now fully operating from here,” Ngwojo said.
Ngwojo said local residents have welcomed the relocating authorities and expressed hope that the situation will stabilize. He estimated Nasir’s current population at around 10,000, with more displaced people arriving.
“We estimate the population at about 10,000 now, and the number is increasing as more people move into the area,” he said.
He also called on international organizations and NGOs to resume operations in the county, emphasizing the need for humanitarian support.
“International organizations and NGOs are urged to return and operate in Nasir, as the government has relocated its base here to facilitate coordination and service delivery,” Ngwojo said.
In March 2025, Nasir witnessed deadly fighting between the South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF) and a local youth militia known as the White Army, which temporarily captured the SSPDF base before it was retaken in April. Fighting and army airstrikes last year displaced large numbers of civilians.
In a weekend statement, Nasir County Commissioner Chungkuoth Ruon Jal warned that the Mandeng and Torkech areas are designated as “the next military target” under Operation Enduring Peace Phase Two.
The statement ordered all residents to move to the eastern bank of the Sobat River within 72 hours. International and national aid staff were advised to relocate to Nasir town or other safer areas.
Jal said the evacuation was necessary for the safety of civilians and humanitarian workers amid upcoming military operations.