Security in Lango under scrutiny for corruption in UPDF recruitment

13 July 2024, 3:07 pm

By Joshua Olomo

Security in Lango is under scrutiny for alleged involvement in corruption in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces recruitment exercise.

Speaking to our reporter at the UPDF recruitment exercise for Apac and Kwania on July 12, 2024, some youth who didn’t succeed in joining the UPDF accused the RDCs, DISOs, and GISOs of colluding with army officers to recruit unqualified individuals.

They accused the GISO of Teboke of extorting money from some youth, promising army recruitment. Fiona Akullu from Apac municipality and Romano Ogwok from Barokworo in Apoi subcounty, Apac district, alleged various irregularities in the UPDF recruitment exercise.

George Abudul, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Apac district, who also oversees RDCs in Lango, stated that the recruitment exercise proceeded smoothly, emphasising that not everyone can be recruited.

Abudul said he has not received complaints of extortion involving the GISO of Teboke, but stated that action will be taken against him if it is confirmed that he engaged in such acts.

The UPDF 5th Division spokesperson, Captain Kato Ahmad Hassan, stated that other youth who were not recruited in the UPDF still have a chance to enlist in the future.