By Amos Ssemuwemba
President Yoweri Museveni has promoted seven senior police officers to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP). The promoted officers include:
- SCP Frank Mwesigwa: Director of Operations
- SCP Kafeero Moses: – Director of Human Resources
- SCP Baryamwisaki Felix: Director of ICT
- SCP Kataratambi Charles: Director of Human Rights and Legal Services
- SCP Banunoba Ubaldo: Chief Political Commissar
- SCP Namutebi Hadijja: Director of Welfare and Production
- SCP Twaruhuukwa Erasmus: Director of Research and Planning
This promotion is part of a larger effort by President Museveni to restructure the police force, which included the appointment of a new Inspector General of Police, Abbas Byakagaba.
The announcement was made by Police Spokesperson ACP Rusooke Kituuma in a brief statement on Wednesday, September 04,2024.
The criteria for promotion to the rank of AIGP in Uganda are multifaceted and align with both performance and strategic objectives of the police force. Officers considered for this rank often have a proven track record of exemplary service, experience in leadership roles, and the ability to manage complex security challenges. Other key factors include:
- Experience and Tenure: Officers with long-standing service and experience in various capacities within the force are considered. This experience ensures that they have the operational knowledge required at higher levels of command.
- Merit and Discipline: Consistent demonstration of discipline, ethical conduct, and adherence to the police code of conduct are critical. Officers who have been disciplined in their service, and have not faced any serious accusations of misconduct, are more likely to be promoted.
- Specialized Training: Officers with specialized training, both locally and internationally, particularly in areas such as counterterrorism, intelligence, or international policing standards, are often prioritized for promotion to senior ranks like AIGP.
- Strategic Importance: The President and the Police Authority may also consider the strategic importance of placing certain officers in leadership roles, especially if they have successfully managed critical units or departments like operations, counterterrorism, or field force units.
Once promoted, an AIGP takes on substantial responsibilities within the Uganda Police Force. Their roles typically include:
- Leadership: An AIGP is responsible for leading significant units or directorates within the police force, such as operations, counterterrorism, or specialized divisions like the Field Force Unit.
- Policy Implementation: They are crucial in implementing national security policies and ensuring that the directives from the highest levels of government are carried out effectively within the police force.
- Oversight and Supervision: An AIGP supervises the work of lower-ranking officers, ensuring that law and order are maintained across their jurisdiction. They also play a vital role in overseeing the training and development of other officers within the force.
- Strategic Decision-Making: At this level, an AIGP is involved in high-level strategic decision-making, particularly in the planning and execution of national security operations.
The promotion of these officers underscores the importance of experience, discipline, and strategic insight within the Uganda Police Force. As AIGPs, these leaders will play a pivotal role in maintaining national security and upholding the rule of law across Uganda.
One of our senior Political reporters Teddy Namayanja is analyzing the matter and more details will come through our corresponding story on the same topic.