Governor Odhok engages Nasir County youth for peace and development
By Correspondent
Upper Nile state governor, James Odhok on Saturday visited Mandeng Boma, where he held a public rally attended mainly by young people. In his address, Governor Odhok emphasized the importance of restraint and encouraged the youth to focus on their future, assuring them that security issues are being addressed by the state government.
The governor acknowledged the recent skirmishes that have affected the county and pledged to restore peace in Nasir. “We are committed to handling the challenges that have disrupted our community and ensuring that Nasir achieves total peace,” governor Odhok stated.
This visit marks Governor Odhok’s full tour of the 13 counties in Upper Nile State, some of which he has visited for the third time.
While in Nasir, the governor is engaging in meetings with the youth leaders, community representatives, and military officials to discuss strategies for fostering durable peace in the county.
Delivering a speech to a cheering crowd on Saturday in Mandeng area, Governor Odhok stated that peace is crucial for the overall development of Upper Nile State, with Nasir County in particular topping the list as it is now facing significant needs in education, infrastructural development, healthcare, and the protection of basic human rights.
As the governor continues his outreach efforts, the hope is that collaborative initiatives will lead to lasting peace and development in Nasir County and Upper Nile State in General.
On Tuesday, the held a peace rally in Ulang County, where he urged the residents gathered for his welcome to foster peaceful coexistence among one another.
For the communities in Ulang County, the governor’s visit was a highly anticipated opportunity to voice their concerns to state authorities about inadequate services in the area.
The residents spoke candidly, demanding improved education and health services from the governor.
In response, Governor Odhok pledged that under his leadership, the state government would be dedicated to diligently work towards enhancing these essential services.
Mid this month, Nasir County Commissioner, James Gatluak, reported a tragic encounter between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and armed civilians in the area, which left three civilians, including a woman, dead and 14 others injured.
Other than the civilian casualties, the commissioner reported that 13 SSPDF attackers were killed during the confrontation, with the motives behind the attack being scanty.
Another attack would also take place the following day, on Thursday morning, lasting about 35 minutes, but no casualties were reported.
“14 civilians were wounded, including women and children. However, according to the white army, around 13 bodies were discovered in the market on the other side (SSPDF),” said Gatluak said.
According to the office of the governor, the visit to these areas is timely ad significant, aiming to restore order in a past recently visited by the dark clouds of casualties.
“As a leader, the governor’s visit is considered significant as it indicates his commitment to addressing local issues and promoting community relations in the State,” said the governor’s press unit.