Juba, May 6, 2026 — His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Wednesday presided over the swearing-in of Lt. Gen. James Koang Chuol as Governor of Upper Nile State, in a ceremony marked by strong calls for peace, unity, and stability in the region.

President Kiir stressed the urgent need to end violence in Upper Nile State, calling on communities to reject conflict and embrace reconciliation. He tasked the newly appointed governor with restoring order and bringing communities together.

“I urge you to go and bring peace, stability, and unity to the people of Upper Nile,” the President said, pledging full government support as the governor takes up his responsibilities.

Leaders from Upper Nile State who attended the ceremony welcomed the appointment and expressed confidence in Governor Koang’s ability to stabilise the state. They also called for accountability and proposed a peace and reconciliation conference to address long-standing grievances.

The appointment comes at a time when the state continues to face security challenges linked to ongoing tensions involving the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-in-Opposition (SPLA-IO) and allied groups, including the White Army.