Residents of Upper Nile State have urged newly appointed Governor Gen. James Koang Chuol to prioritise security and peace, saying stability is essential for recovery and development in the state.
Hundreds of residents gathered in Malakal last Thursday to welcome Koang on his arrival from Juba, expressing hopes that his administration would improve security, promote peaceful coexistence and expand access to basic services.
Koang was reappointed governor of Upper Nile State in early May, replacing Jacob Dollar Ruot.
The appointment marks Koang’s second tenure as governor. He was first appointed in 2025 after President Salva Kiir dismissed James Odhok Oyai. However, Koang was removed from office in October 2025 and replaced by Jacob Dollar Ruot.
“We, the youth of Upper Nile State, have come out in all our diversity to welcome the new governor,” said Arenk Yel, chairperson of the Upper Nile State Youth Union. “We are determined to support him and urge him to provide security and stability for lasting peace in the state.”
Jacob Albino Kodi, a member of the Shilluk (Chollo) Youth Union, called for unity among communities in Upper Nile State.
“We are a peace-loving people, and we pray that the new governor will work for peace,” he said. “We also appeal to all citizens to support him in achieving stability and development in the state.”
Koang arrived in Malakal accompanied by a delegation of national and state politicians, including former governor Dak Duop Bichok, National Legislative Assembly member Rebecca Joshua Okwaci and former governor James Tor Monybuny.
The delegation was received at Malakal International Airport by state officials led by the deputy governor, as well as religious leaders and residents.
Labour Minister Peter Alberto said the governor’s return had raised hopes among residents.
“Today, peace has come to the state, and hope has been restored to the citizens,” he said.
Addressing thousands of people at Malakal Stadium, Koang pledged to make security and peace the priorities of his administration.
“The priorities of our government this time are to provide security and peace for the sake of stability and development in the state, which has been absent for a long time,” he said.
Koang also called on members of the organised forces to handle weapons responsibly and uphold law and order.
Upper Nile State has experienced recurring violence and communal tensions in recent years, with insecurity continuing to hinder economic recovery and the delivery of basic services.
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