The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Wilson Mbasu Mabdi has told newly promoted UPDF officers that the elevation in ranks means a heavier load to account to the country and the institution.
“Whereas we tend to celebrate promotions in light mood, it is worth to know that they come with a heavier load to account to the country and the institution. Equally, as you continue to climb in ranks, it is a climb of the ladder of leadership, a climb of a ladder of team spirit and a climb of a ladder of team work,”said Gen Mbadi.
He was on Friday speaking during he function to decorate 23 promoted officers at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Mbuya.
Congratulating the officers upon promotion, Gen Mbadi also saluted President Museveni for accepting to promote the officers.
“These ranks are also are part of our continuous professionalization and standardization. That’s why many deserving are called but few are chosen. With the Establishment (2021) now launched by the President and commander in chief, this professionalization and standardization process is going to continue, in the short-medium and long run. It is inevitable.”
“Therefore, the decoration we have witnessed here, like other predecessor similar ceremonies should be a testament not only of achievements in our officers’ careers but also to a professional body, ethos and methodology; a reflection of proven potential.”
Speaking on behalf of the promoted officers, Brig Gen Charles Oluka, the Director General of ISO, congratulated the UPDF on the successful launch of the Establishment and hoped to borrow a leaf for the Internal Security Organization (ISO).
He commended how far ISO has come and the new direction that they are taking with support from UPDF through military training.
Brig Oluka noted that joint training is key for bonding, shared ideology, and philosophy and the effective conduct of joint operations.
“The geopolitics of Uganda revolves around three elements which included, the prosperity of all Ugandans, strategic security for Uganda and enhancing International credibility of the African people,” said Brig Gen Oluka
In attendance were, the Deputy CDF, Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, Commander Air Forces, Joint Chief of Staff, Chief of Personnel and Administration, Service Chiefs, Generals and Senior Officers.