Maj Gen Richard Otto Reaffirms UPDF’s Commitment To Regional Peace And Stability

Major General Richard Otto, the Commander Mountain Division has said that the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces remains committed to maintaining peace and stability both within Uganda and across the region.

He explained that this commitment is the reason for Operation Shujaa just as previously done in Somalia and South Sudan, to enhance regional security.

Maj Gen Otto made the remarks during the launch of Tarehe Sita activities in Fort Portal to mark the 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary.

He emphasised that the celebration is a way for the UPDF to give back to the civilians who supported the struggle for Uganda’s liberation.

Maj Gen Otto underscored the strong partnership between civilians and the UPDF, attributing it to the army’s core values of discipline and service.

He urged soldiers to support their families, contribute to national development, and embrace the Parish Development Model (PDM) as championed by the Commander-in-Chief to help fight poverty.

The Fort Portal City Deputy Resident City Commissioner, Mr. Emmanuel Businge expressed his gratitude for being part of the commemorations, highlighting that the UPDF’s involvement in cleaning the city demonstrated its commitment to strengthening the bond between the army, civilian leadership, and the people.

He emphasised that this partnership served as a strong foundation for national development.

Additionally, he encouraged residents to maintain cleanliness beyond the Tarehe Sita activities, stressing that keeping the city clean should not be limited to the event. He urged both leaders and residents to consistently ensure that the city remained beautiful.

The Toro Kingdom Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Calvin Armstrong, who conveyed the Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV’s gratitude stated that His Majesty was pleased with the UPDF’s work in Fort Portal, noting that the city, once a municipality, had attained city status with the support of institutions like the UPDF.

He emphasised that the army’s efforts in cleaning the city symbolised solidarity and unity among Ugandans.

Mr. Armstrong further encouraged city authorities and residents to sustain the cleanliness efforts initiated by the UPDF and announced an upcoming marathon aimed at promoting Fort Portal City and the Toro Kingdom.

This year’s Tarehe Sita is being held under the theme: “Celebrating Pan-African Solidarity and the People’s Sacrifice in the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy for Socioeconomic Transformation.”