Governor Bangasi Joseph Bakasoro of South Sudan's Western Equatoria state called on citizens to remain patient and have peace after the recent conflict in Maridi and Mundri West counties.

Bangasi said being patient will bring huge benefits to the young nation such as freedom of movement of people, goods, and services. He said without peace investors will not come to help develop the country.

The governor said the state government regrets the incidents of Maridi and Mundri West where SPLA and cattle keepers clashed with locals. He appealed to the national government to take steps against those behind the conflict and further warned those who take laws into their own hands not to mistreat innocent citizens.

Bangasi called upon the county commissioners in Western Equatoria to initiate community policing to help report incidents to the police.

The governor made his remarks during celebrations in Yambio marking South Sudan's fourth anniversary of independence, under the theme “Together for a united and peaceful South Sudan."

Photo: Western Equatoria Governor Bangasi Joseph Bakasoro