The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) officers serving under the United Nations Guard Unit Eleven (UNGU-XI) in Somalia have been reminded to strictly observe the law while executing their peacekeeping duties.
During a legal briefing, UNGU-XI Legal Officer Capt. Chris Tumusiime stressed the importance of understanding legal obligations and the consequences of breaching them.
“Ignorance of the law is no defence,” Capt. Tumusiime told the troops. “As peacekeepers, we represent both Uganda and the United Nations, and we must uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.”
He urged the soldiers to obey lawful orders, perform their duties diligently, and avoid negligence, warning that failure to comply could lead to prosecution and compromise mission success.
The session covered operational, disciplinary, and security offences, with Capt. Tumusiime encouraging personnel to seek clarification whenever in doubt.
The briefing was attended by Contingent Commander Lt. Col. Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, Deputy Commander Maj. Jacob Gowan Kaburika, company commanders, department heads, senior non-commissioned officers, and other troops.