Africa-Press – Uganda. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has renewed its commitment to discipline and civilian oversight as it marks 45 years since the start of the liberation struggle, commonly known as Tarehe Sita, with celebrations set for Kabale District in the Kigezi sub-region.
Speaking on Salam Television’s morning show OMUKEEZE, First Division Spokesperson Major Charles Kabona said discipline remains a cornerstone of the national army, a sharp contrast to past regimes where the military operated with impunity, abusing civilians and engaging in widespread misconduct.
He noted that when the National Resistance Army (NRA) captured power in 1986, its leadership deliberately reformed the armed forces and placed them under firm civilian authority.
“Discipline is key in the UPDF, and we have put in place all measures to ensure officers carry out their duties within the law. Our cardinal duty is to serve the people under civilian leadership, and that is a principle we consistently remind our officers of,” Maj. Kabona said.
He encouraged the public to report any misconduct by individual officers, assuring them that mechanisms exist to ensure accountability.
Civilians, he said, should not fear reporting cases to the police, army authorities, or Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), who coordinate security at the district level.
Maj. Kabona added that any officer found culpable is investigated and tried, with sentences ranging from imprisonment to dismissal from the force for capital offences.
UPDF personnel are routinely reminded of proper conduct during army barazas, reinforcing expectations of professionalism and respect for civilians.
This year’s Tarehe Sita celebrations are themed: “Defending the gains of the revolution and honouring the sacrifices of the freedom fighters: A call for national unity, peace and socio-economic transformation.”
In the lead-up to the event, the UPDF has carried out several corporate social responsibility activities in the region.
Maj. Kabona said the activities reflect the army’s belief that, having worked closely with communities during the liberation struggle, it is important to give back as a way of thanking citizens and reaffirming its identity as a people’s army.
The main Tarehe Sita celebrations are scheduled to take place tomorrow in Kabale District.
