Lt General Sam Okiding has assumed office as the new Deputy Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
Sam Okiding takes over from Lt General Peter Elwelu, who was appointed as a senior presidential advisor.
In his remarks, the Incoming D/CDF Lt Gen Sam Okiding lauded the outgoing D/CDF for his contributions, adding that whatever happens in the world happens at the right time, and is Godly commanded and chosen.
He said his appointment is unique since he once deputized the current CDF at the Land Force Headquarters (Bombo).
He pledged to serve at his best and promised to work with others, emphasizing that, “If you want to reach far, then walk with others”.
On his part, the Outgoing D/CDF Lt Gen Peter Elwelu expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the President and Commander in Chief of UPDF H.E Gen Museveni for the trust bestowed upon him when he served as Deputy army chief, saying it was a great challenge as a soldier and leader at all levels of command and control.
He pledged to continue serving his country in another capacity as a Special Presidential Advisor. General Elwelu, also commended the MODVA/UPDF fraternity for all the support over the last 38 years.
However, he highlighted the fastening of court procedures for the military and the need to continuously improve the welfare of soldiers, noting that, “when people are retiring, they should be happy with the package on the table”.
Officiating at the handover, The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba implored all troops to often leave a positive and indelible impact at all their respective services, units and formations.
He mentioned that the above act manifests the peaceful culture of a professional military like UPDF.
“Do the best you can with the knowledge and perspective you have to leave an indelible and positive impact on the force,” General Kainerugaba told Service commanders, Chiefs, Generals and Senior Officers.
The ceremony was also attended by the MODVA Under Secretary in Charge of Finance & Administration Mrs Edith Buturo, Under Secretary of Logistics Mr. Ngabirano Francis Kahiriita and Under Secretary UPDF – Air Force Mr James Mutabazi.
Others were: General Officer Commanding Reserve Force Lt Gen Charles Otema Awanyi, Managing Director NEC Lt Gen James Mugira and Commander Special Forces Command Maj Gen David Mugisha, among other Generals and Senior Officers.
