In a bid to restore discipline and order, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the UPDF Chief of Defence Forces, has mandated the arrest of army drivers, their guards, and State House staff who violate traffic rules, deploying Military Police personnel to ensure compliance.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), has initiated a stringent campaign to curb traffic indiscipline among army drivers, their guards, and State House staff.
This decisive action aims to restore order and enhance road safety following a surge of public complaints regarding reckless driving by military personnel
The move has been widely welcomed by the public, who have long been frustrated by the impunity displayed by some military and government officials on the roads.
"This initiative is a significant step towards ensuring that everyone, regardless of their position, adheres to traffic regulations," said Kampala resident Moses Kabanda. "We hope it brings much-needed discipline and safety to our roads."
To enforce this directive, the UPDF Military Police Traffic Department has teamed up with the Uganda Police Force's traffic division.
Their joint mission includes conducting impromptu checks across the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) area to monitor and rectify traffic misconduct by military personnel and unauthorized individuals wearing military attire to intimidate traffic officials.
"The Military Police will provide guidance on proper road usage and ensure compliance with military standard operating procedures," said Lt. Col. Deo Akiiki, the Deputy Spokesperson for the Uganda People’s Defence Force.
"This will help address the issues of indiscipline and unauthorized use of military gear on the roads."
The directive comes in response to numerous public complaints about reckless driving by military and government officials, which have resulted in several accidents and near-misses.
Gen. Kainerugaba's firm stance is expected to significantly improve road safety and promote a culture of respect for the law within military and government ranks.
"We have received many complaints about the driving behavior of some of our personnel," acknowledged Gen. Kainerugaba. "This action is not just about enforcing rules; it's about setting an example and ensuring the safety of all road users."
The deployed Military Police personnel will not only monitor compliance but also educate military drivers on the importance of adhering to traffic laws.
This initiative includes impromptu checks to prevent unauthorized individuals from using military attire to evade traffic enforcement.
"Such actions undermine public trust and safety," said Lt. Col. Akiiki. "Our goal is to uphold the highest standards of discipline and integrity within the UPDF and among government staff."
As the UPDF Military Police Traffic Department works alongside the Uganda Police Force to enforce this new directive, the focus remains on creating safer roads and fostering a culture of discipline. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba's crackdown on indiscipline among army and State House drivers is a bold step towards achieving these goals, reflecting a broader commitment to public safety and rule of law.
