By KT Reporter
Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has called on army commanders at all levels to lead by example in the fight against corruption. Addressing logistics officers at Mbuya, Maj Gen Bakasumba emphasized the need for integrity and accountability within the force.
He noted that the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, cannot succeed in stamping out corruption without active support from commanders across the ranks. “All UPDF officers need to support the CDF in promoting integrity and accountability within the military. There is zero tolerance for corruption in the UPDF. The UPDF should lead by example in the fight against corruption,” he said.
Gen Muhoozi has consistently warned corrupt commanders and department heads in the army to either reform or leave the force, warning that those caught will face serious consequences. Currently, more than 10 UPDF officers are awaiting trial over corruption-related charges. These cases had stalled due to the dissolution of the General Court Martial by the Supreme Court.
However, Parliament passed a law reinstating the Court Martial last week, and the bill now awaits President Yoweri Museveni’s assent to become operational. Once the court is reactivated, the accused officers, including two Colonels and three Majors, could be among the first to face trial.
Maj Gen Bakasumba further stressed the importance of leadership by integrity, urging officers to gain the trust of their subordinates through ethical conduct. “I also urge you to use logistics committees to strengthen oversight and ensure effective management of military resources,” he added. Brig Gen Godwin Karugaba, the UPDF Joint Staff Logistics Officer, emphasized the value of strategic engagements like this one in enhancing logistics operations and boosting service delivery.
He commended officers for their continued dedication to key missions, including AUSSOM and Operation Shujaa, despite logistical constraints. “We shall continue to develop and strengthen logistics control measures to improve overall performance,” Brig Gen Karugaba said.
The meeting was also attended by Brig Gen Augustine Kyazze, Commandant of the Defence General Depot Magamaga; Col Steven Malinga, Director Logistics Land Force; Col Elias Byamukama, Deputy Joint Staff Logistics Officer; and other senior officers-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
