MPs representing Upper Nile State in the National Assembly and the Council of States have agreed to hold a peace and reconciliation conference soon.

But lawmakers held different views about the need and timing of the peace conference.

The conference is an initiative from the Speaker of the Council of States, Hon. Joseph Bol Chan.

MPs including William Othwon initially rejected the initiative, saying they should discuss the differences between the leaders first.

“Now they are saying that people should be brought from Malakal to sit with the committee here in Juba. This thing is supposed to be in Malakal even if people of Malakal are in makeshift tents,” Hon Othwon protested.

Another MP, Ali Adlan, says there is a need to first provide people with basic needs rather than holding a peace conference.

He said the peace conference should be held when people have moved out of the UN camps.

“You cannot reconcile people when they are in UN camps – when they are under trees. Everyone cares to return to his own home,” he said.

However, State Governor Simon Kun said the peace conference will bring people together in order to restore trust among the communities.

“We can discuss issues of concern, issues of peace, issues of reconciliation to our people and this is something which you cannot reject whether you are enemies or your what because peace is very important for all of us,” he stated.

The MPs then agreed that a peace and reconciliation conference will be held in Palouch. They are yet to set the date.