A former Khartoum-based chief was elected paramount chief in the rebel-administered 'Yomding County' in eastern Upper Nile State early this week.

The election saw Deng Nhail Nai Kier win over Bol Tor Mading, who was previously executive director in Ulang County, by a vote of 18 chiefs to 7, according to a local Sobat State official.

Deng was previously a member of a national chiefs' council in Khartoum from 2001 to 2006. He contested for the post of paramount chief in Ulang County five years ago but was beaten by Wal Kang Biel.