Museveni names new commander for Operation Shuuja in DRC

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | President Yoweri Museveni has made changes to the leadership of operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), replacing Maj Gen Dick Olum with Maj Gen Richard Otto as the commandant.

Maj Gen Olum, who assumed command in October 2022, has been reassigned to represent Uganda in the South Sudan Stabilization Mechanism, a position previously held by Maj Gen Otto.  Col Deo Akiiki Asiimwe, the deputy Defence Public Information Officer (DPIO), confirmed the appointments, congratulating both generals on their new roles and wishing them success.

“Take note: His Excellence the President has appointed Maj Gen Richard Otto the New Commander of Mountain Division and therefore Commander Operation Shuuja, Maj General Dick Olum heads to South Sudan Stabilization Mechanism where Maj Gen Otto has been representing Uganda. We congratulate the two Generals upon their new assignments and wish them good luck,” Col Deo Akiiki Asiimwe said.

The assault on ADF, with the assistance of DR Congo forces, began in November 2021 following bombings in Kampala attributed to the rebel group. Despite ongoing efforts to target ADF hideouts in the DRC, led by UPDF’s Mountain Division under Maj Gen Olum, the group has continued to perpetrate attacks in both DRC and Uganda.

During Maj Gen Olum’s tenure, ADF conducted a devastating attack on Lhubiriha secondary school in Kasese District, resulting in the tragic deaths of 40 students. This incident raised questions about UPDF’s effectiveness in countering ADF threats in the Mountain areas.

Maj Gen Otto, previously commander of UPDF 3rd Division combating cattle rustlers in the Karamoja region, brings his extensive experience to the role. He is credited for leading operations that drove the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) rebels, led by Joseph Kony, out of Uganda.

The appointment of Maj Gen Otto comes at a critical time, with ongoing efforts to address ADF infiltration into Uganda. His leadership will be pivotal in addressing security challenges posed by the rebel group.

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