James Odhok, Governor of Upper Nile state - Credit: Eye Radio/Lou Nelson

The governor of Upper Nile has stressed the need for peace and reconciliation among the citizens to pave the way for the reconstruction of the state.

James Odhok Oyay on Christmas day visited the returnees at the Buluk area in Malakal town and Internally displaced persons where he celebrated with them.

He was joined by his Deputy Governor Ayong Awer Lual and the National Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Onyoti Adigo Nyikuac.

According to the governor’s press unit, some of the IDPs described the Christmas celebrations in Malakal as one of the most unique festivals in the state.

The governor expressed the government’s commitment to work in collaboration with partners to ease the humanitarian burden on the returnees in Upper Nile State.

He assured the congregations at the Protection of Civilian Site of the improved security situation in Malakal town.

The governor and accompanying officials encouraged the people who were willing to do business in the town to do so without fear of the threat of insecurity.