By Nasser Kayanja
State Minister for Fisheries Robert Migadde Ndugwa has urged officers of the 155 Marine Battalion to conduct themselves with professionalism and humanity during operations.
Speaking at the opening of a four-day seminar for 155 Marine Battalion commanders at the Deterrh Headquarters in Entebbe, Migadde emphasized the need for a “human face” in military duties. He noted that President Museveni established the 155 Marine Battalion to safeguard Uganda’s waters and promote responsible fishing, yet there have been growing public complaints about the conduct of some officers.
Migadde cited issues reported by the public, including allegations of corruption, extortion, brutality, and a perceived lack of empathy. He said the seminar is intended to address these concerns and hoped that by its conclusion, many of the grievances would be resolved.
As the MP for Buvuma Islands, Migadde stressed that he does not want to have to respond in Parliament to incidents involving rape, corruption, extortion, or brutality by army personnel. He remarked that the gathering is an opportunity to bond with the officers, understand the community’s concerns, and address the issues raised.
“I am here to build rapport with these officers, to understand the challenges, and to find solutions to the public’s concerns,” Migadde said, adding that the nation should embrace President Museveni’s Kisanja No Sleep motto.
