Paddy Ankunda
The UPDF has announced promotions of three senior army officers. Among them is Col. Paddy Ankunda, the force’s head of protocol. According to the announcement made on Sunday, Ankunda has been promoted to the rank of brigadier general.
Analysts suggest that Ankunda could return as army spokesman. They argue that the current army spokesman, Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, is headed for retirement. Ge. Kulayigye has also been unwell lately, although he returned to office weeks back.
In 2003, he was the UPDF spokesman for Operation Iron Fist, a critical offensive against the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), showcasing his ability to navigate high-stakes operations. By 2008, Ankunda had become the UPDF spokesperson, succeeding Kulayigye.
The changes, however, come months away from the 2026 general polls.
Ankunda has previously held positions such as the director of strategic communications and director of regional affairs, focusing on defense engagement and international affairs, in the UPDF.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Makerere University in 1998, among other recognitions.
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