President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who also is the Commander-In-Chief of the armed forces has stated that the foundation of the army is robust despite encountering a few challenges.
“Therefore, the command should not tolerate those who tarnish the reputation of the army,” he remarked.
The President made these comments during the 13th Tarehe Sita Thanksgiving breakfast 2024, held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. The event revolved around the theme: “How can I repay The Lord for all His benefits to me?”.
President Museveni affirmed that the UPDF is performing admirably professionally and assured Ugandans that the few challenges facing the army would be addressed.
“It is undeniable that there is some corruption within UPDF now; they should not deceive you into believing otherwise. Some corruption has infiltrated, such as fuel theft, misappropriation of funds, and other errors,” Museveni acknowledged.
“And why should soldiers be involved in land evictions? What is their role there? They are not law enforcement officers.
Such challenges have emerged, and we have addressed them, but the positive aspect is that such transgressions are committed by the minority, those individuals who have access to resources. They betray the majority who endure and report such misconduct. Therefore, these issues will be resolved,” he added.
President Museveni has recently intensified his stance against corruption within the army.
In May 2023, Museveni accused senior UPDF officers of embezzling funds intended for Local Defence Units deployed in the volatile Karamoja region.
Museveni lamented that LDUs were “receiving half the pay of a Private in the regular army,” emphasizing, “However, some corrupt army officers began embezzling their funds and withholding payments.”
During the inaugural graduation ceremony of the National Defence College- Uganda (NDC-U) in Buikwe District in January of the previous year, Museveni cautioned against corruption.
“The army is progressing well, but I urge you to prioritize combating corruption once deployed. Ensure that the corruption plaguing civilian sectors does not infiltrate the army. We have encountered instances of corruption.
Corruption poses a significant threat. Those who pilfer fuel, supplies, or funds from the army are enemies of the institution. Corruption has no place in our future,” the President affirmed.
“Otherwise, on the professional front, progress is evident. Our army operates proficiently even in challenging environments like Congo and Somalia. The tasks are daunting, yet they persevere because they are educated individuals.”
President Museveni further disclosed that the success of the UPDF is attributable to a blend of ideology and spirituality.
“Our ideology amalgamates our indigenous beliefs with religion. In our traditions, we abhor treachery and cowardly tactics, which resonate with religious teachings. As we forged this force, we rejected treachery and corruption,” President Museveni reflected.
“When we were here in 1979, factions within our ranks advocated for shortcuts. Some proposed assassinating Oyite Ojok. However, we rejected this notion; we cannot condone assassinations, especially within someone’s home. They argued that eliminating Ojok would diminish UPC’s influence. Instead, we opted for direct military engagement. We consistently choose the righteous path.”
The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, expressed anticipation for gatherings that unify the defense community and its broader supporters, emphasizing the nation’s defense mission.
“Occasions like these remind us of our collective responsibility and greater purpose within our community. Your Excellency, this event reinforces our commitment to these values that have propelled UPDF’s success throughout your tenure,” Hon. Ssempijja affirmed.
The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, described the thanksgiving as an annual commemoration marked by divine reflection, serving as the pinnacle of Tarehe Sita activities that engage the army with the populace.
“We gather here to express gratitude to God for UPDF’s manifold achievements,” Gen. Mbadi articulated.
He further emphasized that such celebrations underscore the paramount role of God, not only in UPDF’s affairs but also in those of Uganda and the African continent.
Mrs. Patience Rwabwogo, Senior Pastor at Covenant Nations Church, hailed the UPDF as a highly professional army that upholds education, world-class training, utilization of state-of-the-art technology, and adherence to international standards.
“I am deeply honored to participate in today’s 13th Tarehe Sita Thanksgiving service, marking 43 years of God’s blessings and favor over UPDF and our nation. The UPDF deploys forces not only within Uganda but also across the region as a primary contributor to peace in neighboring countries. As a nation, we take immense pride in UPDF’s accomplishments,” she concluded.
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