Africa-Press – Uganda. The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has applauded officers of the Kabaka Protection Unit (KPU) for their unwavering dedication and sacrifice in safeguarding the Kabaka and serving the Buganda Kingdom.
Speaking at an official thanksgiving reception held at the Katikkiro’s residence in Butikkiro on Saturday, Mayiga praised the officers for the demanding nature of their work, which involves numerous challenges.
“Your work as security officers is extremely demanding and varied. It involves many hardships, including sleeping outdoors, enduring rain, dust, heat, and other harsh conditions. That is why I thank you for protecting the Kabaka and all of us, ensuring that we continue without any disturbances,” he said.
The Katikkiro acknowledged that some members of the public have previously criticized the Kingdom’s security personnel, suggesting that the Kabaka should be protected only by traditional guards, the Bambowa.
He commended KPU officers for remaining focused and professional despite such criticism, urging them to uphold good conduct at all times.
“An officer’s conduct earns public trust. Discipline is central to a soldier’s service. It is important for a security officer to be neat, polite in speech, diligent in duty, and calm. Calmness is the true dignity of a soldier,” he noted.
On the Kabaka’s security arrangements, Mayiga emphasized that evolving global security threats necessitate a combination of traditional guards and armed personnel.
“The world keeps changing. In an era where firearms are widely used, it is only appropriate that the Kabaka’s traditional guards work alongside armed forces to ensure effective security. Influential leaders worldwide are protected by armed personnel. In the past, the Bambowa used spears and shields, but today, given the realities of armed attacks, the Kabaka’s security must be strengthened. Those who opposed this had not thought deeply enough,” he explained.
Mayiga also expressed gratitude to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their role in providing security to the Buganda Kingdom.
The Minister of Heritage, Palaces, Tombs, Tourism, and Security, Anthony Wamala, urged all security personnel to take a proactive role in maintaining peace and preventing instability, stressing that it is better to prevent unrest than to suppress it after it occurs.
Meanwhile, Col. Edward Herbert Tahunga, Head of Security for Traditional Leaders across Uganda, commended the Katikkiro for recognizing and appreciating the work of security officers. He encouraged KPU personnel to continue executing their duties diligently and urged the Katikkiro to maintain consistent leadership for them.
The Commander of the Kabaka Protection Unit, Capt. Christopher Lutwama, expressed gratitude to the Katikkiro for organizing the appreciation event.
He encouraged officers to remain loyal, committed, and to invest in personal development as they prepare for life after military service.
The event was attended by KPU officers and their families, including spouses and children. Guests enjoyed a celebratory meal, music, and entertainment, creating a joyful and appreciative atmosphere.
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