The Deputy Commander of Special Forces Command (SFC), Brig. Charity Bainababo, warned the promoted officers against being involved in corruption or else it would eat them up.
She made this call on August 16, 2023, during a pipping ceremony for the 28 recently promoted Police Presidential Guard (PPG) officers at the SFC Headquarters in Entebbe, where she was the guest of honour.
In her speech, Brig. Charity Bainababo emphasised the value of moral leadership, consideration for civilians, and the elimination of corruption. She reminded the PPG officers that the privilege of training and promotion also bestows great responsibility upon them.
“Much has been given to you in the form of training and promotion, and much will be demanded of you in the form of service. However, I have no doubt you will be up to the task. There are people under your command who will be looking up to you. Those who you have left at that rank will be expecting a lot from you. Live exemplary. There are things you are not expected to do as an officer because there are people looking up to you—the way you eat and conduct yourself,” Brig Bainababo warned.
Brig. Bainababo advised the promoted officers not to live beyond their means as it could lead to corruption, which would destroy their hard work.
“There is a tendency of living beyond our means when we are promoted, but avoid it. If you don’t live within your means, there are many temptations. You can transform without being corrupt or misappropriating resources under your care. Stay away from corruption. It is a cancer that hits hard. If a soldier goes hungry because a commander has stolen his money to pay fees for your child, the child will go to school with curses of stolen money,” Brig Bainababo said.
The Uganda Police Force’s Director of Operations, AIGP John Nuwagira, has advised officers to pay attention to the significance of upholding discipline and exerting sincere effort when performing policing tasks.
“As an officer, discipline holds paramount importance, especially within your professional sphere. This virtue not only commands respect but also shapes the integrity of our work,” AIGP Nuwagira said.
AIGP Nuwagira further reiterated his point that promotions are accompanied by increased responsibilities and conveyed his appreciation to police officers’ spouses, recognising the help and sacrifices they make.
“Our dedication to duty means that we’re often away from our families, even during holidays, all for the purpose of serving our nation,” he said.
He reassured those who did not receive promotions that further opportunities would come in the future.