IGP Ochola Tips Officers On Patriotism, Warns on Corruption

The Inspector General of Police Okoth Martin Ochola has started preaching patriotism and dedication within the force as obliged in the constitution of Uganda and as directed by President Museveni.

The Police commander expressed his readiness to promote patriotism within the men on uniform during the working visit of Elgon and Sipi policing regions in Eastern Uganda.

Accompanied by Senior Police Directors, Mr Ochola met with regional Police commanders from Mbale Municipal Chambers where he deliberated on various issues.

According to Ochola, Police officers must love their country first to ensure proper public service delivery.

“Patriotism is the love for your country, you must love your country at heart,” he urged.

Mr Ochola told officers that two weeks back, President Museveni addressed the Police council but among the guidelines, he emphasized patriotism and dedication while they execute their mandate.

President Museveni tasked the Inspector General to ensure that Police officers become more dedicated to their duties of protecting and serving the public saying that without the love for their country, they cannot serve better.

He said that Policemen and women who are not patriotic and dedicated should apply to the IGP office and leave the force immediately.

“Whoever cannot do these things should request me in writing and   I relieve them of their duties. We have to promote patriotism as obliged in the constitution,” Ochola said.

Ochola also tipped officers on professional ethics and standards as well as proper direction by senior officers to their juniors.

He advised senior commanders from the rank of RPC to OC stations to try as much as possible to create a sense of belonging to their juniors.

He discouraged them from expressing hopelessness to their subordinates.

“You must try as much as possible to address the needs of your personnel. Give them hope. For instance, if a constable comes to you with an issue, you must address them,” he said.

However, the Police boss pointed out a number of challenges facing the force such as welfare and limited budget but strongly warned them against corruption.

Mr Ochola pointed out corrupt tendencies common within the force and warned officers against them saying that repercussions shall be severe if they’re arrested.

For instance, he warned them against selling police services, Police forms, making complainants to buy books, soliciting money for K9 services and twisting cases especially civil matters into criminal cases.

Mr Ochola however also provided solutions to some of the challenges such as increase in community policing, professionalism, customer care, transparency and observation of human rights.