The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has said that promotion to higher military ranks comes with increased responsibility, urging newly decorated Generals and senior officers to prepare for more demanding duties ahead.
Gen Kainerugaba made the remarks during a pipping ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya, where he reminded the officers that their elevation reflects a deeper obligation to the nation and to those under their command.
“This ceremony is not merely a change of insignia or ranks; it represents more responsibility and heavier tasks,” the CDF said. “Your subordinates will now look up to you for mentorship, wisdom, and solutions.”
Quoting the Bible, Gen Kainerugaba cited Luke 12:48, saying: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”
He added that the officers had been entrusted with the confidence of the nation, their commanders, and the soldiers they lead, noting that in return, greater expectations now rest on their judgment, integrity, and commitment.
The CDF also called on the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the wider security agencies to continue safeguarding the country’s hard-won peace, while sustaining their contribution to regional and allied missions in line with the Pan-African spirit.
Addressing the national political environment, Gen Kainerugaba urged Ugandans to maintain calm during the election period, encouraging citizens to vote peacefully and return home afterwards. He noted that the presence of agents, media, and international observers would provide sufficient oversight to ensure a credible electoral process.
“Those who will try to cause trouble, as I have heard some people proclaim, will be dealt with swiftly and decisively with all the tools at our disposal, and in accordance with the law,” he warned.
He further appealed to political actors to comply with Independent Electoral Commission guidelines and cooperate with security forces, while urging voters not to linger around polling stations.
Gen Kainerugaba also thanked the Commander-in-Chief, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for his strategic leadership, which he said has shaped the UPDF into a professional force contributing to peace and stability in Uganda, the region, and across the continent.
On behalf of the promoted officers, Lt Gen Jack Bakasumba, the Chief of Joint Staff, expressed gratitude to the CDF and the Commander-in-Chief for the trust placed in them. He pledged that the officers would uphold the UPDF values of integrity, courage, and discipline, and thanked Gen Kainerugaba for his mentorship and leadership.
The ceremony was attended by senior UPDF and government officials, including Lt Gen Kayanja Muhanga, Commander Land Forces; Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Commander of the UPDF Air Force; and Ms Edith Butuuro, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
Among those promoted were Lieutenant Generals Jack Bakasumba and Francis Okello; Major Generals James Kinaalwa, Deus Sande, Charles Byanyima, William Bainomugisha, and Christopher Ddamulira; and Brigadier Generals Mcdans Kamugira, Fred Zakye, and Paddy Ankunda, alongside other Generals and Colonels.