FILE: Gen. James Koang Chol, Governor of Upper Nile State | Photo Courtesy PPU

Upper Nile State Governor James Koang Chuol has pledged to prioritize peaceful dialogue over military action to reopen critical transport routes along the Sobat River.

Speaking during a welcoming ceremony in the state capital, Malakal, on Thursday, June 4, the governor emphasized his commitment to negotiating with local communities and armed groups, stating that military intervention is no longer part of his plan to restore security to the vital waterway.

Addressing the security and access concerns regarding the Nile route between the Sobat River and Malakal, Governor Koang pledged to pursue reopening the pathways strictly through diplomatic and peaceful means.

“As for the Nile link between the Sobat and Malakal, I will work to open it, not as a military man, but as a peace-loving person. I will not go wearing a military uniform except in cases of necessity,” Koang stated.

The governor also urged national ministers and state representatives to actively support efforts to reopen river transport between Malakal and Juba, stating that the move would significantly boost trade, ease the movement of goods, and improve local livelihoods.

He called upon Upper Nile officials serving in the national government to utilize cabinet and political bloc meetings in Juba to advocate for solutions to the state’s pressing challenges.

“National ministers coming from the capital, you were with us before and now you are with us again,” Governor Koang said.

“I hope that the advisors in the government who represent the state will be our ambassadors in the national government and speak about the challenges facing the state.”

“I urge you, during your discussions in the Council of Ministers and in the meetings of the blocs, to address the issues of Upper Nile and contribute to solving the river transport problem between Juba and Malakal, as this will facilitate the transport of goods, ease the lives of citizens, and even support the state government’s treasury with taxes.”

Restoring the vital transport links along the Nile corridor, the governor noted, would dramatically reduce transportation costs, facilitate commerce, and increase state revenue through taxation.

Governor Koang was reappointed to the helm of Upper Nile State by President Salva Kiir Mayardit on May 5, 2026, replacing outgoing governor Jacob Dollar Ruot. Upon his arrival at Malakal Airport, he was received by a large delegation of state officials, county commissioners, community leaders, and local cultural groups.

This marks Koang’s second tenure as the state’s political head; he previously served as governor from March to October 2025 before being appointed as the national Deputy Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs.