The officers of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have been urged to use their newly attained achievement to further the successes registered by the army as well as maintaining good discipline.
The attribute of discipline was underscored by most of the political leaders and Senior UPDF officers who spoke during the decorating ceremony at Ministry of Defence headquarters in Mbuya on Tuesday.
In his message, Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Adolf Mwesige who was represented by the State Minister, Bright Rwamirama lauded the President and Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, Gen Yoweri Museveni for appreciating the impact made by UPDF officers in stabilizing the country.
The Minister said it is because of Gen Museveni’s contribution towards building a professional UPDF that the country enjoys peace and stability which are critical for socio-economic transformation.
He added that the foundation of UPDF thrives on the Commander-in-Chief’s recognition of discipline as a core value for the success of any mission.
He warned the newly promoted officers
against bad behavior that could later result in poor health or over spending.
“Your discipline is a sign of confidence and has made you promoted accordingly,” he noted. Do not indulge in things that will keep you down but carry the flag high”.
Speaking at the same event, Minister of Security Gen Elly Tumwine noted that every day is unique and that good things are only seen by those who stay disciplined. He revealed that at the senior level, they had agreed to form an investment club for the Generals and their Spouses on top of the other savings from Wazalendo.
Tumwine further told the decorated officers to maintain discipline, as well as respecting organizational values and integrity.
The Chief of Defence Forces Gen David Muhoozi congratulated the newly promoted officers and their spouses, saying that serving UPDF is a special calling that requires one to wait for that special day and wait to celebrate the special day.
“As we celebrate your promotion, we also celebrate the UPDF because UPDF has made us shine,” Gen Muhoozi told the newly promoted officers.
He reminded them that the added ribbon (rank) means additional responsibility and expectation, and how to responsibly manage them will make them make a positive contribution.
The senior most decorated officer and Master of Ceremonies of the Chancellory, Gen Ivan Koreta on behalf of other newly promoted officers expressed gratitude to President and Commander-in-chief for entrusting them with higher authority, saying promotions do not only recognize great performance but act as a sign of trust that one can perform better.