General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, Chief of Defence Forces, has challenged newly promoted Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces Generals and Officers, saying that promotions come with increased accountability to the country and the UPDF.
“You must prepare yourselves and also remember that the ranks denote seniority, authority and responsibility according to the chain of command,” said Gen Mbadi.
He made the remarks while presiding over a decoration ceremony for newly promoted Generals and senior Officers on Wednesday at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Joint Headquarters in Mbuya. This comes after the President and Commander-in-Chief promoted them on October 3, 2023
In total he promoted 50 UPDF officers between the ranks of second lieutenant and Colonel. Six Colonels were promoted to the rank of Brigadier to attain their first star.
He reminded them that the new ranks represent a great military service which they have exhibited through discipline, loyalty, integrity, selfless service, personal courage patriotism and urged them to remain healthy and fit.
The Chief of Defence Forces urged them to always remember the UPDF's pro-people code of conduct and to avoid damaging tendencies that undermine the UPDF's cohesion and effectiveness.
He acknowledged the sacrifices and support of the spouses and their families extended to the officers.
Speaking on behalf of the decorated Generals and Senior Officers, the Commandant Uganda Military Academy – Kabamba, Brig Gen Wycliffe Keita extended gratitude to the guidance of the Commander-in-Chief and the CDF’s stewardship of the UPDF.
“Your direction, personal example, can’t and consistent guidance have significantly helped us to grow professionally and consolidated our collective strength both individually and collectively as an institution,” said Brig Gen Keita.
He added, “Your confidence in our abilities means a great deal to all of us. We look forward to the new challenges and opportunities the new ranks provide.”
Those decorated today included: Brig Gen Jimmy N Musoke, Brig Gen John Patrick Otongo, Brig Gen James Muhwezi, Brig Gen Richard Rubongoya, Brig Gen Wycliffe R Keita and seventeen Colonels.
Present at the function were; the Deputy CDF, Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, Joint Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Leopold Kyanda, the Commissioner Human Resource, Mr. Alfred Cox Anguzu, Service Chiefs of Staff, Service Chiefs, Generals and Senior Officers.