EDITOR
Major General Henry Matsiko, the Chief Political Commissar of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), has called on the people of Kigezi to adopt ethical leadership and reject societal vices that hinder progress.
Speaking at a seven-day residential cadre training program in Kanungu District, Matsiko described corruption as a “societal rot” that threatens national development.
“Corruption is like rot. Those who practice it lack ethics and are rotten at their core,” Matsiko stated. “Uganda is grappling with excessive pride and dangerous liberalism. If we don’t expose corruption, we risk subversion and destruction. It is time for people to rise and act against these vices.”
The Major General urged leaders to combat divisive tendencies such as sectarianism, parochialism, and chauvinism. He emphasized the need for unity under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ideologies, calling on leaders to prioritize patriotism and pan-Africanism.
“What should unite us is an attitude reflecting NRM ideologies—avoid sectarianism, religious divisions, and working for foreign interests,” Matsiko remarked. “Leaders should practice what they preach and promote goodness, not hate or identity politics.”
Matsiko also criticized behaviors such as excessive pride, condemnation of moral values, and civic irresponsibility, describing them as detrimental to community development. He called on religious leaders to set an example by preaching forgiveness, unity, and goodness in line with God’s commands.
“Religious leaders must lead by example. Preach about God’s goodness, not hatred or unforgiveness,” he said. “Remember, we are created in God’s image and must obey His commands.”
The cadre training program, attended by participants from across Kigezi, aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to lead with integrity, report corruption, and foster community unity. Major General Matsiko challenged participants to champion positive transformation in Kigezi and beyond, urging them to use the training as a foundation for ethical and patriotic leadership.
The program highlights the UPDF’s commitment to nurturing leadership that upholds integrity, ethical values, and shared community goals for national development. lead with integrity, report corruption, and unite their communities under shared values of patriotism and pan-Africanism. Major General Matsiko challenged participants to leave the training ready to champion positive transformation in Kigezi and beyond.
