The newly appointed Chief of the Defence Forces in the UPDF, Gen. David Muhoozi has heaped praises onto his predecessor, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala.
President Museveni early last week made a reshuffle in the army, appointing Gen. Muhoozi as the new CDF replacing Gen. Katumba Wamala who was appointed State Minister for Works.
Speaking at the piping ceremony of the newly promoted officers at the Ministry of Defense Headquarters at Mbuya on Tuesday afternoon, Gen. Muhoozi said his predecessor is a hard-working man whose leadership has moved the army to greater heights.
“The Commander in Chief could not have found a better person to lead the army than the distinguished Gen. Katumba Wamala,” he said.
“We are grateful for your exemplary service you have offered to the UPDF.”
Asked to comment on the increased number of UPDF officers involved in dubious deals that on many occasions have tarnished the name of the army, Gen. Muhoozi said that these are some of the challenges that come with new technology but said he would not tolerate any officer involved in such deals.
“Those are some of the challenges of growth and modernization but the most important aspect is having the capacity to identify and bring them to book,” he argued.
“It has not just begun today and I pledge to deal with them. The UPDF does not have a place for wrong doers.”
He said that first on his agenda in the new office will be working on accommodation for the soldiers, discipline and management of the force since the entire country is now at peace.
Asked whether it was a deliberate move by President Museveni to get rid of aged officers, the new CDF said that the UPDF is made up of officers from the UNLA, NRA and that in the army service; when others join others go out.
“People serve and move to other fields as deemed fit.”
The outgoing CDF, Gen.Katumba Wamala said it was a happy moment for him to be leaving the mantle of the army in the hands of young blood that he said are capable to steering it.
“You should stay focused on training of the soldiers and I am sure you are capable of leading the UPDF.”
On being promoted, the first female Major General of the UPDF, Proscovia Nalweyiso said it was an honor from the Commander In Chief to recognize her distinguished service.
“I implore all women out there never to fear but rise up like I did and joined the bush war. They can reach greater heights like I have done,” Nalweyiso said.