9 July 2014 - There were repeated calls for peace and security to prevail in the country as hundreds of people gathered in the capitals of South Sudan’s ten states to celebrate the third Independence Day anniversary.

Addressing crowds gathered in the Eastern Equatoria State capital Torit, Governor Louis Lobong Lojore said it was unfortunate to commemorate independence, which was brought by precious lives, as the country continued to lose more lives through conflict.

“This should have been a time when (we) should be enjoying the dividends of peace and freedom,” he said. “It is high time for us to reflect and explore different means of resolving conflict instead of resorting to violence at all times.”

Western Bahr El-Ghazal State Governor Rizik Zakaria urged citizens to stop rumour-mongering and maintain the spirit of nationalism above individual interest for peaceful coexistence and political stability in the state.

Speaking at celebrations in the state capital Wau, Mr. Zakaria revealed that President Kiir would soon inaugurate a new maternity building at Wau Teaching Hospital.

Assuring residents that his priority was to provide basic services through a decentralized system of government, he also downplayed calls for federation.

Celebrations in the Upper Nile State capital Malakal were held under the theme, “Towards peace and unity of one people and one nation”.

Government officials, UN representatives and local residents attended the celebrations which featured dance and drama.

“Our first priority as the government is to improve the security and health in all the counties of Upper Nile State,” said State Governor Simon Kun Puoch.

He called upon all citizens who are still away to return to Malakal.

At the Freedom Square in Western Equatoria State capital Yambio, State Governor Bangasi Joseph Bakosoro said the people of Western Equatoria would continue to support the legitimate government of South Sudan. He urged citizens to maintain peace and co-existence among all tribes in the state.

The state governor noted that a federal government had been proposed by some people as a system that could help solve conflict. He however urged people to ensure that they should not misinform people during discussions.

It was vital for families to restrain their children from joining any mobilization drives for rebellion, the Northern Bahr El-Ghazal Acting State Governor Kuel Aguer Kuel said in the state capital Aweil.

He added, however, that those who relatives had joined the rebellion should not be intimidated as they had been misled by a call that was not in good faith, but rather, intended to break down South Sudan into weak states.

“The security of our people and protection of their properties remain top priority,” said Mr. Kuel. “Our country is at war, but our government under the leadership of (President) Kiir is committed to solving the conflict peacefully. Peace and development should always be top priority.”

Thousands of people turned up at celebrations in the Warrap State capital Kuajok, where Acting State Governor Akec Tong Aleu urged the state’s citizens to strive for unity and reconciliation so that stability could be restored within the country.

He also urged citizens to work hand in hand with political parties in the state to advocate for peaceful options in settling the Abyei problem between Sudan and South Sudan.