FILE - Lt. Gen. Atem Marol, Former South Sudan Inspector General of Police – Photo Courtesy of Rwanda Police

The former Inspector General of Police reflected on his career journey, which led to his appointment to the role he held for just over a year before his dismissal, and expressed gratitude to President Salva Kiir for the opportunity to serve in the position.

In a statement to the media on Tuesday, December 10, Lt. Gen. Atem Marol acknowledged the pivotal role the president played in his rise through the ranks, thanking him for the numerous opportunities that allowed him to serve his country at various levels.

Lt. Gen. Marol recounted the pivotal moments of his career, from his promotion by the late Dr. John Garang, who elevated him from Second Lieutenant to Lieutenant Colonel, to his subsequent promotions under President Kiir’s leadership.

“Your Excellency, you came and promoted me from Lt. Col. to Colonel, then from Colonel to Major General, and from Major General to Lieutenant General,” Marol said. “Then you entrusted me with the assignment to be the Director General of Civil Registry, Nationality, Passport, and Migration, a position I held for two and a half years.”

Marol continued to reflect on the remarkable journey that led him to become the Inspector General of Police, a post he held for just over a year before his dismissal.

He expressed sincere appreciation for the trust President Kiir had shown in him, allowing him to travel internationally to the United States, the United Kingdom, China, and parts of Africa and East Africa.

“I want to say thank you so much for the opportunity you gave me, Your Excellency,” Marol added, noting the rare chance he had to represent South Sudan on the global stage.

In addition to thanking the president, Marol extended his gratitude to First Lady Mary Ayen Mayardit and the entire First Family for their unwavering support. He also recognized his colleagues within the police force, acknowledging their efforts during his tenure as the Inspector General.

“For those who have worked with me in the police, I want to appreciate all the work you have done in one year,” he said, his tone both humble and sincere.

Marol also took the opportunity to apologize for any mistakes he may have made during his tenure, asking for forgiveness from anyone he may have wronged. “If there is someone I have done something wrong to, please, I ask for your forgiveness. This was the process of work, and I did not mean anything by it,” he said.

Lt. Gen. Marol left his post with gratitude and a call for reconciliation, emphasizing his deep appreciation for the trust placed in him by President Kiir and his team.