FDC backs UPDF recruitment drive, urges youth to apply

FDC has urged eligible Ugandan youth to apply for the UPDF recruitment exercise, supporting national service as a non-partisan duty.

In a notable shift from its usually cautious approach, the Forum for Democratic Change has encouraged eligible Ugandan youths, including its supporters, to take part in the ongoing recruitment exercise for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, saying national service should be embraced regardless of political affiliation.

Speaking to journalists on Monday, the party’s Deputy Secretary for Publicity, Ibrahim Kasozi Biribawa, said the FDC supports the exercise announced by the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs and is urging qualified young people to apply.

“As a democratic and national political organization committed to Uganda’s development and stability, the Forum for Democratic Change recognizes the importance of citizens taking part in all lawful national institutions,” Kasozi said.

The recruitment drive, which aims to enlist about 10,000 personnel, was announced by the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col Chris Magezi. It is intended to replenish army ranks and strengthen staffing across key formations.

Kasozi anchored the party’s position on Article 208 of the Constitution, which establishes the UPDF as a national, non-partisan, and professional force under civilian authority.

“On that basis, the Forum for Democratic Change respectfully calls upon all able men and women who meet the required qualifications to consider joining national service,” he said.

He also stressed that participation remains voluntary and should be based on informed personal choice, urging applicants to verify accurate information before applying.

The party further directed its structures across the country to help mobilize eligible youths to take part in the exercise, saying national institutions are strengthened when they reflect Uganda’s diversity and talent.

According to the UPDF, applications will be submitted online from June 10 to June 24. Shortlisted candidates will later be displayed on district notice boards, city halls, and official military platforms.

Physical screening and recruitment will be conducted from July 20 to August 1 across districts and cities, with quotas guided by population data from the 2024 National Population and Housing Census.

The army is seeking both general recruits and specialists. General entrants are required to have at least a UCE or UACE certificate and fall within the specified age bracket, while specialists are being recruited in fields such as engineering, ICT, aviation, healthcare, law, logistics, education, sports, arts, and social sciences.

Military officials say the exercise is aimed at filling gaps created by upcoming retirements and boosting capacity for new strategic deployments, including staffing the UPDF National Referral Hospital, which is expected to become operational.