The Governor of Yei River State has reiterated the need for dialogue with the armed opposition as a top government priority.
David Lokonga Moses says the dialogue President Salva Kiir pronounced this week saves lives and avoids further suffering, Radio Easter reports.
He calls on citizens at all levels to be ready for dialogue.
Governor Lokonga also appeals to South Sudanese to stop tribal tendencies for lasting peace to prevail.
He says the different tribes of the country should unite and work together for nation building.
He was speaking in Yei on Friday during the release of 14 detainees suspected to be armed opposition elements.