An army commander called on the citizens to forgive the army, unite and reconcile for the peace in the country.
Speaking during the second independence anniversary celebrations in Wau, Army Division Five Commander Major-General David Manyok Berech acknowledged the mistakes committed during the struggle, Voice of Hope reported.
He described the current situation as a time for change and putting efforts on development.
The commander asked various states in conflict to reconcile and open a new page.
Major-General Manyok warned soldiers to refrain from carrying guns when out of duty.
He said soldiers who keep unauthorized guns will be dealt with and investigated according to the army code of conduct.
Major-General Manyok urged the army and all regular forces to avoid threatening civilians with their guns.
The commander urged citizens to stop ethnic violence in all the communities and join hands with the government to build the nation.
Major-General Manyok said the army is ready to protect territorial integrity from external aggression.