Upper Nile deputy governor arrives in Malakal

MALAKAL – The newly-appointed deputy governor of South Sudan’s Upper Nile State, Deng Joh Angok, arrived in the state capital Malakal for the first time since being granted the top SPLM party position in the state by President Salva Kiir.

Angok was appointed on March 18, 2024, replacing Ayong Awer Lual. This made him the highest-ranking SPLM official in the state, as the governor position is held by the main armed opposition SPLM-IO under the revitalized peace agreement.

He arrived in Malakal on Friday and was welcomed by thousands of supporters. Angok thanked the crowd and acknowledged the challenges facing the state.

“I am deeply humbled by the warm welcome extended to me by the people of Malakal,” Angok said. “I am fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead, but I am also filled with determination to work tirelessly for the peace and stability of our beloved state.”

Angok emphasized community development as a priority and called for unity.

“We must work together, regardless of our differences, for the greater good of our state and its people,” he said.

Angok also chairs the state’s ruling party and will have a significant role to play in the upcoming elections.

Several high-ranking members of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) attended the reception, including Stephen Dhieu Dau, Chairperson of the South Sudan Revenue Authority, and Rebecca Joshua Okwaci, SPLM Chief Whip.