08/05/2026
Many people in Upper Nile State, especially in Malakal, see the return of former Governor James Koang Chuol as a return of hope. Many are celebrating and embracing his comeback, believing that he can bring change to the region.
However, for me, I see things differently. James Koang Chuol is a military leader, and as we know, many African countries continue to struggle because leaders with military backgrounds often focus more on power than on political vision and development. What our people need today is leadership with clear ideas, wisdom, and a vision to move the region forward.
Personally, I believe his return is mainly to complete the agenda of President Salva Kiir. Unfortunately, President Salva Kiir has failed to show real concern for the people of Upper Nile State, especially the people of Malakal. The region continues to suffer while political interests come first.
What we truly need are leaders who work for the people, not leaders who only serve the interests and agendas of the President. Young leaders like Jacob Dollar should have been given the opportunity to continue serving and bringing positive change to the people of Upper Nile State. But because he was not fully implementing the Presidentโs agenda, he was removed.
Upper Nile deserves leaders with vision, leaders who care about development, peace, and improving the lives of ordinary citizens โ not leaders driven by political loyalty alone.
By Martin Bol Deng
Koang Chuol
Dollar