Photo | Courtesy of The Office of Upper Nile State Governor

The King of Shilluk Kingdom has upon his arrival on Saturday in Malakal called on politicians to desist from activities that can trigger violence citing Upper Nile needs peace now more than ever before.

His Majesty Reth Kwongo Dak Padiet arrived in Malakal en route to his palace in Fashoda after a year in the national capital, Juba according to the Office of Upper Nile State governor.

The King was received by Governor James Odhok Oyay along with community leaders.

In a statement to the media, the King urged “politicians to never again engage in fighting,” adding “Upper Nile needs peace now than ever before.”

Intensified fighting in Panyikang and Fangak Counties between July and August last year prompted President Salva Kiir to order the evacuation of the King to Juba from Fashoda.

It started as factional fighting involving the former Kitgwang factions led by General Simon Gatwech and General Johnson Olony. But it later escalated to involve armed youth.

Following a military intervention from the national government, relative peace and stability returned to the area