The newly appointed Uganda Defense Attaché to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Brig. Paddy Ankunda, has challenged Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) prosecutors to uphold human rights standards in all aspects of their duties.
Speaking at the passout ceremony of UPDF prosecutors who completed a prosecutors’ and investigators’ course at the Legal Training Center (LTC) in Jinja over the weekend, Ankunda emphasized that the UPDF is a law-abiding institution with human rights observance at its core.
Twenty-five prosecutors and investigators from different UPDF units underwent a two-week comprehensive training covering case file management, witness statement recording, and other essential skills.Ankunda stressed that human rights observance is a form of discipline expected from all UPDF members as they aspire to serve the country selflessly.
He further noted that the UPDF conducts peace support operations across Africa, where prosecutors’ guidance is crucial to avoid disciplinary lapses. Ankunda highlighted the importance of prosecutors and investigators working together to produce case files with sufficient evidence to sustain charges, ensuring proper dispensation of justice.He also stressed the preparation of legally sound witness statements, noting that poorly prepared statements could lead to the collapse of cases.
Ankunda lauded the Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for championing the fight against corruption within UPDF formations. He tasked prosecutors with actively investigating corruption-related cases, which he said are slowly creeping into the force.
Ankunda added that courses for prosecutors and investigators are timely in uprooting corruption and strengthening the institution for future generations.
He further encouraged UPDF members to participate responsibly in polling processes as registered voters. Ankunda noted that while the Chief of Defense Forces has established a central security mobilization committee to engage the public on peace and security matters, force members can also promote these values within their families and communities.
Meanwhile, Maj. Sam Wako, Acting Commandant of LTC, said that with support from UPDF leadership, the center has trained numerous force members in different aspects of the law. He added that these trained members are now better equipped to interpret legal frameworks, ensuring the sustainability and proper functioning of the institution.
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