By Kabuye Ronald
In a significant shift within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Colonel Deo Akiiki has been appointed as the Military Assistant to the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Adviser on Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba. The announcement was made by Col. Akiiki on Friday, February 28, when he expressed his gratitude to the UPDF leadership for entrusting him with this esteemed position.
The appointment takes immediate effect and creates a vacancy in the UPDF’s defence and military deputy spokesperson role, previously held by Akiiki. This development hints at the possible redeployment of Col. Chris Magezi, who has often acted as the de facto spokesperson for Gen. Muhoozi, under the leadership of Acting Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye.
“I take this honour to officially announce that I have been appointed by the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor to on Special Operations Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba as his Military Assistant,” Akiiki said, underscoring his deep sense of responsibility.
With over 20 years of experience in military public relations, Akiiki has been an instrumental figure in shaping UPDF’s communication strategy. His career has seen him involved in major military operations, such as the fight against the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in northern Uganda, the Karamoja disarmament programme, missions in Somalia, and Operation Lightning Thunder in the Democratic Republic of Congo. For the past seven years, he has served as the UPDF deputy spokesperson, engaging with both local and international media on pressing security matters.
“It is a statement of honour and trust that I’m going to serve at the helm of the leadership of UPDF. I don’t take it for granted, and I thank the CDF and indeed the entire leadership of UPDF for the trust in me,” he added.
As Military Assistant to Gen. Muhoozi, Akiiki will assume a vital support role, assisting in both operational and administrative capacities. His responsibilities will include providing strategic advice on defence matters and special operations, liaising between the CDF, military units, and government agencies, as well as assisting in planning and executing key military strategies. Additionally, he will play a critical role in managing the UPDF’s communication efforts, shaping its public image, and handling media relations.
Akiiki will also oversee a range of administrative tasks, including managing the CDF’s schedules, briefings, and official correspondence. With his extensive background in military communications, his appointment reflects a strong emphasis on defence media relations and strategic messaging.
Concluding his announcement with the Swahili phrase, “Mungu pamoja Nasi” (God is with us), Akiiki reaffirmed his commitment to the new role and his unwavering dedication to serving the UPDF and Uganda.
