President Museveni Appoints Abbas Byakagaba as New Inspector General of Police
Kampala, Uganda – In a significant leadership reshuffle, President Yoweri Museveni has appointed Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Abbas Byakagaba as the new Inspector General of Police (IGP), replacing Martin Okoth Ochola. Byakagaba, who recently retired from the force, succeeds Martins Okoth Ochola, whose contract expired in March 2024.
AIGP James Ochaya has been named as the Deputy IGP, replacing Maj Gen Geoffrey Katsigazi. The appointments are pending vetting by the Parliamentary Appointments Committee, led by Speaker Anita Among.
This announcement marks a pivotal change in the leadership of Uganda’s police force. Byakagaba, a seasoned police officer with an extensive background in law enforcement and security, is expected to bring fresh perspectives and reforms to the force.
President Museveni praised Ochola for his service and expressed confidence in Byakagaba’s ability to lead the police force through evolving security challenges.
“We thank Mr. Ochola for his dedication and commitment to the service. Mr. Byakagaba brings a wealth of experience that will be instrumental in enhancing the effectiveness and integrity of our police force,” the President stated.
President Museveni emphasized the importance of these new appointments in strengthening Uganda’s internal security apparatus. “We are confident that Mr. Byakagaba and Mr. Ochaya will bring renewed energy and strategic vision to the Uganda Police Force,” the President stated.
Byakagaba’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters highlight his robust track record in handling complex security operations and his commitment to modernizing the police force. Critics, however, express concerns over continuity and the challenges that come with transitioning leadership.
The new IGP has vowed to prioritize community policing, enhance transparency within the force, and tackle rising crime rates with strategic and community-focused approaches.
“Our goal is to build a police force that not only enforces the law but also earns the trust and respect of the communities we serve,” Byakagaba said in his first public address.
Byakagaba has committed to advancing the effectiveness and integrity of the police force, with a focus on community policing, transparency, and crime reduction.
“My mission is to enhance public trust and ensure the safety and security of all Ugandans through professional and accountable policing,” Byakagaba remarked.
As Uganda navigates through security reforms and strives to maintain public order, Byakagaba’s leadership will be under close scrutiny, with expectations high for tangible improvements and strengthened public trust in the police force.
This leadership change signifies a new chapter for the Uganda Police Force, with the potential to reshape the country’s approach to law enforcement and public safety.
The nation now awaits the Parliamentary Appointments Committee’s vetting process, which will determine the final confirmation of these pivotal roles. The outcome will set the stage for the future direction of Uganda’s policing and public safety strategies.
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