The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has reminded newly promoted Generals and senior officers that higher ranks come with greater responsibility and more demanding obligations to the nation and their subordinates.
Speaking at a pipping ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya on Monday, Gen. Kainerugaba said the promotions were not merely symbolic but signified deeper trust and increased expectations.
“This ceremony is not merely a change of insignia or rank; it represents more responsibility and heavier tasks,” the CDF said. “Your subordinates will now look up to you for mentorship, wisdom, and solutions.”
Gen. Kainerugaba, who also serves as Senior Presidential Adviser for Special Operations, cited the Gospel of Luke, chapter 12 verse 48, to underscore the weight of leadership.
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked,” he quoted, adding that the officers had been entrusted with the confidence of the nation, their commanders, and the soldiers under their command.
“In return, much more is now expected. Your judgment must be sharper, your integrity stronger, and your commitment to the soldiers under your command more absolute,” he said.
The CDF urged the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the wider security agencies to continue safeguarding the country’s hard-won peace and to sustain Uganda’s contribution to allied regional missions in the spirit of Pan-African solidarity.
Turning to the national political environment, Gen. Kainerugaba called on Ugandans to remain peaceful during the election period. He encouraged citizens to vote and return home, noting that the presence of party agents, the media, and international observers would ensure transparency and credibility.
He issued a warning to individuals intent on causing unrest, saying such actions would be dealt with firmly and lawfully.
“Those who will try to cause trouble will be dealt with swiftly and decisively, using all the tools at our disposal and in accordance with the law,” he said.
The CDF also urged political actors to adhere strictly to Independent Electoral Commission guidelines and cooperate with security forces to ensure the safety of all citizens.
Gen. Kainerugaba further thanked the Commander-in-Chief, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for his strategic leadership, which he said has shaped the UPDF into a professional force contributing to peace in Uganda, the region, and across the continent.
On behalf of the promoted officers, Lt. Gen. Jack Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff and the most senior among those decorated, thanked the CDF and the Commander-in-Chief for their trust and confidence.
He pledged that the officers would uphold UPDF values of integrity, courage, and discipline, and commended Gen. Kainerugaba for his leadership and mentorship of the force.
The ceremony was attended by senior UPDF and government officials, including the Commander Land Forces, Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga; Commander of the UPDF Air Force, Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi; and the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Ms. Edith Butuuro.
Among the newly promoted officers were Lt. Gens. Jack Bakasumba and Francis Okello; Maj. Gens. James Kinaalwa, Deus Sande, Charles Byanyima, William Bainomugisha, and Christopher Ddamulira; and Brig. Gens. Mcdans Kamugira, Fred Zakye, and Paddy Ankunda, alongside other senior officers.
