GULU — The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Gulu regional office has conducted a legal aid outreach for officers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) at the 4 Infantry Division Headquarters in Gulu, as part of activities leading up to the 16 Days of Activism and International Human Rights Day on December 10.
During the engagement, Ms Phiona Opoka, the Regional Human Rights Officer, commended the UPDF leadership for what she described as growing adherence to the rule of law in military operations. She said the army’s conduct in recent years reflects a deliberate effort to ensure equal treatment before the law.
“UPDF is a pro-people force, and it is required to follow all the laws that govern Uganda,” Ms Opoka said.
She noted that the Commission gives priority to units involved in missions and field operations to ensure that troops act within the correct legal framework and avoid actions that could result in individual impunity.
Ms Opoka further praised the military for adopting policies that support legal aid services for personnel, saying these have contributed to improved conduct both in service and within communities.
Her briefing covered aspects of international human rights and humanitarian law, including International Labour Organisation conventions, the Geneva Conventions (1864–1977), and protections for women and children during armed conflict and military operations.
Representing the Division Commander, Col Alex Wabuyi of the 4 Artillery Brigade said the legal clinic was timely as the country enters the election security period and the festive season, periods that often require heightened vigilance by security agencies.
He said the knowledge shared would help officers uphold the army’s image while executing their duties.
“As UPDF, we have advanced to a significant level in human rights protection, as noted in international human rights reports,” Col Wabuyi said, reaffirming the force’s commitment to uphold human rights in line with Article 221 of the Constitution.
The outreach attracted officers from various units under the 4 Infantry Division, along with heads of departments.
