The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have begun early preparations for the annual Tarehe Sita celebrations in Masindi District, combining community service with security readiness ahead of Uganda’s January 15 General Election.
Tarehe Sita, marked every February 6, commemorates the launch of the National Resistance Army’s liberation struggle in 1981,through which President Museveni captured power in 1986
Over time, the celebrations have evolved to include nationwide community outreach, including town cleaning, facility repairs, medical services, and water access projects.
In Masindi Town, UPDF soldiers were on Monday seen clearing streets, markets, and drainage channels, drawing the attention of residents and traders who welcomed the initiative ‘for improving hygiene and reducing congestion.’
Addressing journalists during the exercise, Major O.R. Kakuru, Political Commissar of the Artillery Division in Masindi, said the army’s early involvement was aimed at securing a peaceful electoral season.
‘We have come earlier because we need to concentrate on the security of elections. As UPDF, we will offer security during the election period so that people can exercise their democratic rights in a peaceful environment,’ Major Kakuru said.
He emphasized that the army’s community work is part of its wider mandate.
‘Tarehe Sita activities are a reminder that the UPDF is a people’s army that grew from the community and continues to work with the community,’ he said.
As part of the outreach, soldiers repaired a public toilet at Masindi Central Market, a facility long in disrepair.
Traders praised the upgrade for improving hygiene and dignity, particularly for women and elderly vendors.
‘We repaired a toilet in Masindi Market, and people are enjoying the facility. These are small but important things that improve the daily lives of our people,’ Major Kakuru noted.
Beyond Masindi Town, the UPDF has repaired boreholes in rural Bunyoro communities, restoring access to clean water for residents who previously walked long distances or shared unsafe sources.
Local leaders said the practical projects reflect the spirit of the liberation struggle, which focused on improving the lives of ordinary people.
The theme for this year’s Tarehe Sita is “Defending the Gains of the Revolution and Honouring the Sacrifice of Freedom Fighters.”
The ruling Museveni-led NRM party is running its election campaign on the tagline “protecting the gains.”
Military leaders say the theme is especially relevant ahead of the elections, emphasizing discipline, patriotism, and respect for the rule of law.
‘Defending the gains of the revolution includes protecting peace, unity, and democratic processes. Citizens are urged to cooperate with security agencies and avoid actions that could lead to violence or instability,’ Major Kakuru added ahead of the national celebration to be in Kigezi Sub-region’s Kabale Town next month.
Commander-in-Chief Gen Museveni is the incumbent president and faces seven opposition candidates, including his closest challenger in the 2021 race, Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.