Summary:
- Minister Oleru highlighted the transformation of Uganda’s international image, attributing this shift to the UPDF’s growing reputation as a symbol of stability and security in the region.
MASAKA: The Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs (Veteran Affairs), Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, has lauded the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for their discipline, professionalism, and pivotal role in promoting peace across Africa.
While addressing a gathering in Kyanamukaka, Masaka District, Minister Oleru highlighted the transformation of Uganda’s international image, attributing this shift to the UPDF’s growing reputation as a symbol of stability and security in the region.
“People used to associate Uganda with instability, but today, when you mention Uganda, they say UPDF,” Hon. Oleru remarked. “Our army is respected not only in Africa but globally for its discipline and peacekeeping efforts in South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia.”
Reflecting on Uganda’s turbulent past, the minister shared personal experiences from the conflict-ridden period before the National Resistance Movement (NRM) assumed power in 1986.
She urged Ugandans to cherish the peace and stability the country enjoys today, emphasizing that it is the result of sacrifices made during the liberation struggle.
Minister Oleru also commended the people of Masaka for their historical support of the National Resistance Army (NRA) during the struggle, acknowledging their critical role in sheltering and assisting freedom fighters.
“You followed the Bible’s teachings by opening your doors to the freedom fighters, guiding them away from danger. If you had not supported them, we would not have the peace we enjoy today,” she noted.
Reaffirming the UPDF’s commitment to integrity, she assured the public that the army remains free of corruption and dedicated to serving the nation.
Earlier in Masaka City, Hon. Oleru expressed gratitude to the residents for their continued cooperation and support of the UPDF. She encouraged them to take full advantage of government projects aimed at improving their livelihoods.
Addressing the evolving relationship between the military and civilians, she pointed out that the UPDF has worked hard to restore the military’s image, contrasting it with past regimes where the army was often disconnected from the people and resistant to dialogue.
The minister also emphasized the importance of learning Kiswahili to enhance business communication, highlighting its status as the official language of the East African Community and a unifying tool among member states. She further pointed out the language’s growing prominence across Africa, citing Nigeria as an example where its use is on the rise.
Call for Unity and Accountability
Hon. Richard Sebamala, the Member of Parliament for Bukoto Central, echoed similar sentiments, urging his constituents to prioritize unity, accountability, and effective leadership over partisan politics. He stressed the need for leaders who focus on service delivery rather than promoting division.
“We are not yellow, we are not red, we are not blue, we are not green; we are for the people. We are for Uganda,” Hon. Sebamala stated, emphasizing that his constituency values competence over political affiliation.
Military Leaders Recognize Public Support
The Joint Staff Political Commissariat, Maj Gen Henry Masiko, also thanked the people of Masaka for their unwavering support and appreciation of the UPDF. He emphasized that the army belongs to the people, expressing gratitude by metaphorically stating that they “kneel and thank” their parents for bringing them into the world.
Maj Gen Masiko recalled Masaka’s historical significance during the liberation struggle, noting that when the Commander-in-Chief prepared to attack Kabamba, the mission was launched from Masaka.
When the vehicle broke down in Katigonda, the people of Masaka provided another one, ensuring the mission’s success.
Brig Gen Michael Kabango, Chief of Staff – Land Forces, speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces, highlighted the importance of Tarehe Sita as an opportunity to thank the wananchi (citizens) for their support, which has been instrumental in the UPDF’s success.
“There is no UPDF without the wananchi. All the success we have achieved in Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo is because of your support,” Brig Gen Kabango stated. He encouraged residents to actively participate in government programs designed to improve their quality of life.
