The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has reaffirmed that its wide range of activities across the country — including infrastructure development, community outreach, and disaster response are fully in line with its constitutional mandate.
Speaking to the media in Kampala, Major General Henry Masiko, the Joint Staff – Political Commissariat, clarified that the UPDF operates strictly within the provisions of the 1995 Constitution of Uganda, particularly Articles 208 and 209, which define its character and functions.
He said Article 209 outlines four key roles of the army: defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uganda, cooperating with civilian authorities in times of emergency or disaster, fostering harmony and understanding between the army and the public, and participating in productive activities that contribute to national development.
“When you look at those four areas of our mandate, it would mean we are not fulfilling our duty if we were not doing the very things we are being accused of doing. You are accusing us of doing the right things according to our constitutional mandate,” Masiko told journalists.
He further urged members of the media to familiarise themselves with the Constitution to understand the legal framework guiding the UPDF’s operations.
On the issue of a recent security incident in kasese that sparked public debate, Major General Masiko confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, urging Ugandans to remain patient and await verified information.
He assured the nation that the situation was contained before it could escalate, emphasising the UPDF’s continued readiness to protect Uganda’s sovereignty and maintain peace.
“What should comfort Ugandans is that the incident did not escalate. It could have been worse if we were not a capable force,” he said.
Masiko also explained that the army does not operate with a separate budget for the annual Tarehe Sita activities. Instead, UPDF departments allocate portions of their regular operational funds such as the medical and engineering units — to support community projects as a symbolic birthday gift to Ugandans.
“Our medical and engineering departments use part of their existing budgets to give back to the people. This is our way of celebrating with the population through impactful projects,” he said.
Addressing concerns about compensation for army veterans, Major General Masiko assured that significant progress has been made following amendments to the UPDF Act.
He noted that the long-standing challenges that had delayed or reduced veterans’ benefits have been resolved, and many former soldiers are now receiving their rightful compensation.
“I want to assure veterans that their situation has greatly improved. Many who were retired or reduced in the early 1990s are now smiling in their villages because their compensation issues have been addressed,” Masiko said.
He added that legal officers will be part of the UPDF teams in the field to guide veterans on updated procedures and ensure that those with pending claims can correct their records to facilitate payment.
“The UPDF is not suffocating the veterans’ compensation budget. Their welfare remains a priority, and we are working to ensure every qualified veteran receives what they deserve,” he emphasised.