Gulu, Uganda | In a recent ceremony at the Fourth Division Headquarters, 206 junior and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) retired from the Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF) received a stern warning against aligning with opposition groups seeking to unseat President Museveni.
The Chairperson for Veteran Affairs in the Acholi Sub Region, Rt. Lieutenant Alfred Ocaya, emphasized that retirees should not allow themselves to be manipulated by political factions advocating for change. He stated, “You are going home and there is this word in the community, ‘we need change.’ If you join them to fight the government, we shall cancel you from there.”
Ocaya also urged the retirees to register with local security personnel upon returning home, a measure intended to monitor their activities and ensure community safety. He expressed concerns about some veterans not cooperating with security, which could raise suspicions about their intentions.
Brigadier General Felix Busizoori, the Division Commander, reinforced the message, highlighting the need for the veterans to transition responsibly into civilian life while maintaining peace and security in their communities. He advised them to invest their retirement benefits wisely, steering clear of risky ventures like sports betting or polygamy.
Col. Jackson Kayanja, the Fourth Division Intelligence Officer, noted that the retirees had been notified of their upcoming departure in 2021, with three years dedicated to preparing them for the transition. This included counseling sessions aimed at shifting their mindset from military to civilian life.
One of the retirees, Christine Alimolok, reflected on her military experience, commending the army for its discipline and professionalism, which she believes has contributed to stability in Uganda and its neighboring countries. She also recounted her challenging encounters during her service, recalling battles against former LRA commanders between 1998 and 2002.
The messages from military leaders underscore the ongoing tensions in Uganda's political landscape and the potential implications for those transitioning from military to civilian life.
