Two senior military officers, Maj. John Steven Oluka, 58, and Maj. Zadock Abor, 49, have been dismissed from the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) over their involvement in the deadly attack on a base camp in Mogadishu in May of this year. The General Court Martial, sitting in the Somali capital, found both officers guilty of one count of cowardice in action and sentenced them according to the UPDF Act of 2005.
Maj. John Steven Oluka faced an additional count for offenses by a person in command when in action, leading to his dismissal from the army. The court proceedings took place at the headquarters of the UPDF Sector One Contingent, and the sentences were handed down after careful consideration of the evidence presented.
In addition to the dismissals, non-commissioned officers also faced sentences related to the same incident. Lance Corporal Alex Okot Anyatta received a sentence of 16 years, seven months, and 20 days for failing to protect war materials. Corporal Hagai Twinemanzi was sentenced to 22 years, nine months, and 24 days for the same offense.
Sgt Ronald Obeyo received a sentence of 17 years, six months, and 19 days, while Sgt. William Kakooza was sentenced to 10 months and 18 days, both for failing to protect war materials.
The court provided the convicted officers with the right to appeal within 14 days if they were dissatisfied with the decisions. The dismissals and sentences underscore the seriousness with which the UPDF is addressing issues related to discipline and conduct within its ranks.
