Akot Deng Akot, caretaker governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal, has pledged to resolve the political differences surrounding the removal of his predecessor Kuel Aguer Kuel from his position.

Akot said the area is bigger than individuals, stressing conversation between those with opposing views. President Salva Kiir installed Akot as head of the state government after dismissing Kuel, who had been involved in a power struggle with his own predecessor, Paul Malong, the current SPLA chief of general staff.

“Dialogue has always been the way of our resolving our issues in Aweil and this is what distinguishes us from other communities in South Sudan," Akot said Tuesday. "If there are people who do not see the importance of peaceful dialogue as the best means of resolving political differences, then such people are not from us. I have come to work with our people to strengthen our unique way of resolving our issues."

The top state official said he was in Juba to meet with the president for a briefing on the general security and political situation in the state and to receive guiding policies and directives. Akot said he commended the president for taking steps to end the war.

“We do not want war, but we do not accept threats to our security," said Akot. "We have said several times that the government is peaceful because it is in the interest of our people and stability. The people have welcomed the signing of peace and now they have accepted to carry a message of peace."