Uganda’s armed forces are abuzz with celebration following the news of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s elevation to the esteemed position of Chief of Defence Forces.
President Museveni on Thursday night replaced CDF Gen Wilson Mbadi with Muhoozi, who has been serving as Senior Presidential Advisor in charge of Special Operations.
Amidst whispers of excitement, an officer, speaking under the cloak of anonymity due to media protocols, expressed sentiments of jubilation, proclaiming this moment as the pinnacle of the country’s history.
“This is the best time of our life in our country’s history,” said an officer at the rank of Captain who preferred anonymity as he is not authorized to speak to the media.
The officer highlighted Gen. Muhoozi’s previous endeavours, particularly during his tenure as Chief of Land Forces, where he prioritized enhancing the welfare of soldiers.
Initiatives such as the improvement of housing facilities, bolstering salaries, upgrading clothing provisions, and ensuring adequate feeding were among the focal points of Gen. Muhoozi’s leadership, garnering respect and admiration from troops.
“When Gen Muhoozi was appointed Chief of Land Forces, he focused on improving our welfare, especially building modern housing facilities, salaries, clothing and feeding,” the Captain added.
Reports indicate that soldiers stationed across the country are quietly commemorating this momentous occasion, with barracks and local bars serving as venues for subdued yet heartfelt celebrations. Gen. Muhoozi’s appointment has undoubtedly ignited a sense of pride and optimism within the ranks of the UPDF, signalling the dawn of a new era under his leadership.
“I trained with Gen Muhoozi in Kasenyi and served under him for many years in Northern Uganda and Somalia,” said another army officer, adding, “He means well for the army; he is a good commander and we are already having drinks to celebrate this important appointment.”
A former Special Forces officer now serving in Police said Gen Muhoozi is an incorruptible humble warrior who will help in fighting corruption and abuse of power in the army.
“It’s now a bad time for thieves,” said another source, emphasizing, “Gen Muhozi is uncompromising on corruption. He’s a stickler for efficiency and accountability.”
During his reign as CLF, Muhoozi also focused on enhancing land forces’ combat capabilities.
“We will be building an efficient, modern, and accountable force that can defend the sovereignty of our country at all times,” said Gen Muhoozi then.
He also promised to ensure soldiers remain healthy.
This includes promoting regular fitness exercises and training.
Regarding ideology, Muhoozi said his reign would see “intensification of political education to our officers and men.”
Gen Muhoozi will be in charge of operationalising the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Establishment 2021, an instrument of delegated Command, Control, and Administration which provides for the powers of command and administration of UPDF.
The instrument provides a manual for the deployment, salary, training and capacity building of the forces
The UPDF Establishment 2021 document enables changes or merging of some UPDF departments, the creation of new ones, and discarding others to improve command, control and administration of the Forces.
Gen Muhoozi, who previously served as Special Forces Commander, is yet to make an official statement following his appointment as head of the army.
However, Muhoozi’s close associates say he is grateful to God and President Museveni for the elevation to serve in the highest position of the UPDF.
