Police Promotions Reveal Strategic Shift
A document dated 23 December shows Major Kon John Akot, head of the traffic police, elevated to Lieutenant General alongside Luis Gatkuot Luak, Edward Dimitri Lokak, Garang Akuei Diing Deng and Andrea Martin Hassan.
Eleven brigadiers also moved up to major general while five colonels reached brigadier general, deepening a reshuffle aimed at tightening command structures within the young national police service.
Traffic Directives That Sparked Debate
General Akot drew headlines in November by ordering owners of right-hand-drive vehicles to convert within seven days or stay off the road, citing accident statistics and compatibility with regional traffic flows.
He further instructed minibus operators to ensure passenger doors opened onto the sidewalk, aligning with left-hand-drive rules currently in force.
Government Response and Public Sentiment
The Inspector General of Police and the Acting Interior Minister suspended those directives days later, stressing the need for broader consultations while maintaining support for stronger road safety.
Analysts say the promotion suggests institutional confidence in Akot’s administrative skills despite recent controversy, and may give him fresh authority to champion orderly urban mobility.
Significance of the Lieutenant General Rank
In South Sudan’s hierarchy, a three-star Lieutenant General commands wide operational resources, second only to the Inspector General, and is expected to shape policy as well as enforcement.
Road Safety Plans Moving Forward
Police headquarters indicate forthcoming guidelines will prioritise public outreach, phased compliance and coordination with transport unions to avoid economic disruption.