The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) are grieving the death of Lieutenant Amon Ariho, who unfortunately killed himself.

Before his death, Lt. Ariho addressed a passionate letter to the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), thanking him for his leadership but also noting significant concerns within the UPDF's Engineering Brigade.

In his letter, Lt. Ariho accused Major George Ogwang, commander of the central region brigade, of creating a toxic working atmosphere.

He alleged that choices were taken without consulting engineers, and that financial mismanagement hampered their job.

Engineers, for example, in Butambala District produced blocks worth 100 million Ugandan Shillings. Instead of acknowledging their efforts, Maj. Ogwang allegedly accused them of theft and fired the engineers, leaving them disheartened.

Lt. Ariho also noted outstanding debts and a lack of assistance for the Engineering Brigade, which made their task much more difficult.

He advised against destructive propaganda and selfish behavior that undermines excellent people while encouraging others who do not deserve it.



The lieutenant used the letter to encourage the CDF to address these concerns and restore fairness and accountability to the UPDF.

He also asked for the care of his family, particularly his children, and to be buried in his hometown of Rukiga.

Brigadier-General Felix Kulayigye, the UPDF's spokesperson, confirmed Lt. Ariho's death and said the army is looking into the allegations in his letter.

Deputy Spokesperson Col. Deo Akiiki said his death was a big loss for the UPDF and his condolences to his family.

The death of Lt. Ariho serves as a wake-up call for the UPDF to address internal concerns that may have harmed morale and productivity.

The task now for leadership is to ensure that his complaints are taken seriously and that similar occurrences do not occur again.