By Mariam Nanyanzi Kyagulanyi
Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has reshuffled senior commanders in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), affecting the Land Forces, Reserve Forces and two infantry divisions.
The changes, announced on Saturday, come ahead of the retirement of Lt Gen Charles Otema Awany, who has been commanding the Reserve Forces and is due to retire next week.
Maj Gen Joseph Ssemwanga, who was Deputy Commander of the Land Forces, has been appointed General Officer Commanding the Reserve Forces, replacing Lt Gen Otema.
Maj Gen Felix Busizoori, who has been commanding the 4 Infantry Division, has been appointed Deputy Commander of the Land Forces, replacing Maj Gen Ssemwanga.
Maj Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, the former commander of the 3 Infantry Division, has been transferred to the 4 Infantry Division as its new commander.
Brig Gen Micheal Hyeroba, previously Deputy Commander of the 1 Infantry Division, has been appointed commander of the 3 Infantry Division.
The changes take immediate effect, according to Col Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information.
The reshuffle is part of the changes in the senior command structure as the UPDF prepares for Lt Gen Otema’s retirement next week.