Amama Mbabazi, the former Prime Minister of Uganda, has cautioned the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) that a strong military must enjoy the trust of its citizens.
While at the 45th Terehe-Sita Anniversary celebrations launch at the Military Headquarters in Mbuya, Amama Mbabazi said that a strong military is built on the trust and support of the people.
He drew from his experience in the 1980s bush war, noting that the National Resistance Army (NRA) was victorious due to the shelter, care, and intelligence provided by the people.
Mbabazi added that the NRA’s protection and respect for communities during the struggle fostered a strong bond, which ultimately led to their victory. He said that this bond should not be taken for granted by the UPDF.
“The UPDF foundation was built on the trust and support of the civilians; that foundation was laid in that bond between the fighters and civilians, without the people, there were no fighters, and without the fighters, people would not have secured the peace we see,” Mbabazi said.
Mbabazi stressed that while the UPDF always remains in its core function of protecting the people of Uganda, its strength originates from the trust and bond it shares with the people.
“A modern army should be technologically advanced, trained, and equipped, but must remain close to the people, guarded by discipline, dedicated to defend both sovereignty and human dignity, let us reflect on the true core values of the struggle that was fought, that included peace, unity, justice and prosperity, let the UPDF remain the force the people trust” said Mbabazi who also served a Minister of Defence.
He called on the UPDF to work closely with the people, noting that trust and collaboration between the force and the citizens are crucial to achieving victories for Uganda.
Amama Mbabazi also corrected the narrative, stating that the Kabamba Barracks in 1986 was captured by 44 men armed with 27 guns on February 6, clarifying that the often-quoted figure of “27 men” is inaccurate.
On his side, Lt. Gen. Sum Okiding, the Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, said that the UPDF’s celebration of Terehe-Sita marks the foundation of Uganda’s new beginning, serving as the anchor for all the country’s achievements.
According to the UPDF, the forthcoming Tarehe-Sita celebrations will be held under the theme “defending the Gains of the revolution and honouring the sacrifice of freedom fighters, a call for national unity, peace, and social economic transformation.
Lt. Gen. Okiding found it concerning that many Ugandans are questioning what gains are being protected, with some even doubting there’s a future worth securing in Uganda under President Museveni.
State Minister for Defence, Huda Abason Oleru, reflected on Uganda’s past, where prolonged wars and unrest forced many to flee, and emphasised that it’s time for Ugandans to appreciate the peace brought by the UPDF and NRM government. She urged citizens to cherish the stability and security they enjoy today, acknowledging the sacrifices made during the liberation struggle.
The UPDF, which originated from the National Resistance Army (NRA), has gained recognition on the African continent for its substantial contributions to peacekeeping and stability, not only in Uganda but also in the East African region. However, it has also faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses, impunity, and misuse of power within Uganda, with some questioning its treatment of civilians.
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