KAMPALA – Deputy Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny Dollo has praised the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) for exhibiting the hallmarks of a pan-African and non-partisan army.
Speaking at the Tarehe Sita thanksgiving breakfast at the Defence ministry headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala, at the weekend, Justice Owiny Dollo said the UPDF has been able to liberate other countries as an ambassador of peace.
“As a non-partisan, professional, people’s army, you have been inward looking and collectively submitted to the civilian authority. We are very proud of you,” Justice Owiny Dollo said.
“By the will of God, UPDF will continue embracing the democratic process in Uganda, allow exchange of views as well as continue building commanders who know the power of the civilian authority,” he added, before urging the soldiers to restrain from hostility and self-identity but rather tolerate nationalistic ideas for the country to be different from past regimes.
The Minister of State for Defence in Charge of Veteran Affairs, Lt Col (Rtd) Bright Rwamirama, cautioned the troops to maintain discipline saying that the purpose of their work is to create a better country for all Ugandans.
“UPDF primarily exists to serve others,” he said.
The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen David Muhoozi, saluted UPDF spouses for tirelessly working in unison with the troops to create peace and stability in Uganda and beyond. “We are leaders because of what we do with you,” Gen Muhoozi told the congregation.
The Commander Land Forces Lt Gen Peter Elwelu prayed for forgiveness and mercy during all UPDF missions and requested the good Lord to continue extending the hand of wisdom to all commanders in the security forces.
The Guest Speaker Rev Fr. Paulino Twesigye Mondo commended the forces for working for peace in the country and on the African continent.
“If you love peace, then God invites you in Uganda,” he said, adding that as ambassadors of peace, UPDF has ushered in the fundamental change evidenced by the rapid infrastructural transformation development, rule of law, development in ICT, improved health, among others.
