The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Gulu regional office has conducted a legal aid outreach for officers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) at the 4 Infantry Division Headquarters in Gulu.
The engagement is part of UHRC’s activities ahead of the annual 16 Days of Activism and the commemoration of International Human Rights Day on 10 December.
Ms Phiona Opoka, the Regional Human Rights Officer for UHRC Gulu, commended the UPDF leadership for strengthening adherence to the rule of law in military operations. She said the army’s approach reflects its commitment to equal treatment before the law.
“UPDF is a pro-people force, and it is required to follow all the laws that govern Uganda,” she said.
Ms Opoka noted that the Commission prioritises units engaged in missions and operations to ensure that troops operate within the correct legal framework and avoid actions that may result in impunity by individuals.
She also applauded the UPDF for adopting policies that support legal aid services, saying they have contributed to improved conduct among personnel both on duty and at home.
Her briefing covered international human rights and humanitarian law, including International Labour Organisation conventions, the Geneva Conventions from 1864 to 1977, and protections for women and children during conflict and military operations.
Representing the Division Commander, Col Alex Wabuyi of the 4 Artillery Brigade said the legal clinic was timely as the country enters the election security period and the festive season. He noted that the knowledge shared would help security personnel maintain the army’s image while serving the public.
“As UPDF, we have advanced to a significant level in human rights protection, as noted in international human rights reports,” he said.
Col Wabuyi reaffirmed the army’s commitment to upholding human rights in both military and civil engagements, in line with Article 221 of the Constitution.
The outreach attracted officers from the 4 Infantry Division and heads of departments.
