UPDF retires 700

A total of 756 officers and men of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have retired from active military service.

The officers and men between the ranks of Private and Colonel were retired in eight centers across the country yesterday, according to the army Spokesman Brig. Richard Karemire.

Of these, 80 personnel received their retirement certificates from UPDF first Division in Kakiri, 83 got theirs from UPDF 2nd Division in Mbarara and 86 others from UPDF 3rd Division in Moroto. Another 101 personnel were retired in fourth Division in Gulu, 28 in 5th  Division based in Pader, and nine in Masindi, and 28 of them attended their retirement ceremony in Nakasongola Cantonment.

The Commander Land Forces (CLF), Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu said the struggle has not yet ended and their input is very vital.

“Yes, we now have the peace but that is not all we fought for. We still need to see our people prosper. You should continue exercising your patriotic spirit for the good of our people by enlightening them to take advantage of the peaceful environment we have in order to prosper. There is no better time to champion societal development than when one is retired.” Gen Elwelu said.

He urged the media to also join the struggle in transforming Uganda. “The media can be an important partner in the transformation of society. They should, therefore, engage in the promotion of unity, peace and hard work rather than promoting hatred, chaos and societal evils.” Gen Elwelu noted. The General said that the key to success lies in the Biblical verse, “Love your neighbour as you love yourself,” because no one can succeed by himself but through love, unity and solidarity much can be achieved.

The Camp Commandant of General Headquarters, Maj. Gen. Joram Kakari Tumwiine noted that the retirees have added much value to the UPDF institution and the country as a whole. He told the retirees to carry forth to their respective communities the discipline that has seen them serve and retire honorably.

“Maintain your self-discipline, keep safe, remain healthy and above all, maintain the good relations with the community.”  Gen. Kakari counselled.

Col. Sezi Mugasi who has served for 48 years in UPDF counselled the serving officers and militants that the secrets to a peaceful and honorable long service are an avoidance of anti-people activities, being corrupt-free, loving the work one is doing, being disciplined, keeping healthy and above all fearing God. He told his fellow retirees that their prime duty as senior citizens should be to promote security in the country. He further told the retirees to avoid wrong politics, unlawful means of solving problems and ensure they do not detach themselves from the UPDF.