Greater Yei SSPDF Commander Promoted to Major General

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – The South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) Commander for Greater Yei, John Lual, has been promoted from Brigadier General to Major General, marking a new phase in his military career and service to the country.

The announcement was made official on 2 November 2024, and the promotion covers his command over the four counties of Greater Yei i.e. Lainya, Kajo Keji, Morobo and Yei River County.

Major General Lual held a small celebration at his residence in Yei to mark the promotion. The event was attended by Yei River County Commissioner Emmanuel Taban Seme, Morobo County Commissioner Data Charles, former Yei County Commissioner Aggrey Cyrus Kanyikwa, senior SSPDF officers and local religious leaders.

During the celebration, Commissioner Emmanuel Taban praised Major General Lual for his discipline and dedication to duty, saying that his promotion was a result of his consistent service and good conduct. He urged other soldiers to remain patient and committed as they await similar recognition from the government.

“The promotion of Major General Lual should serve as an example to other SSPDF members. With discipline, patience, and respect for civilians, good work is always rewarded,” Commissioner Taban said.

He also called on all SSPDF soldiers in Greater Yei to prioritise the protection of civilians and their property, which he said remains the core duty of the army.

Major General Lual thanked the leadership and his fellow soldiers for their cooperation, saying the achievement was not his alone.

“This rank is not mine personally. It belongs to the people of South Sudan and the SSPDF as a whole. Without the soldiers’ support, it would not have been possible to reach this level,” he said.

He also acknowledged the challenges faced by the armed forces in maintaining peace and stability, but encouraged continued unity and professionalism within the ranks.

Local officials at the event described Lual’s promotion as a sign of recognition for efforts made to stabilise security in Yei and neighbouring counties. They said his leadership has contributed to improved coordination between the army and civil authorities in the area.

The ceremony ended with prayers and a call for continued peace in Greater Yei. Guests and community members expressed hope that the promotion will motivate other officers to work diligently in service of the nation.

The Office of the Commissioner for Yei River County said in a statement that the event demonstrated continued cooperation between local leadership and the SSPDF in promoting peace and discipline among soldiers in the region.