TAREHE SITA CELEBRATIONS: A SYMBOL OF COOPERATION BETWEEN PEOPLE AND ARMED FORCES
Residents of Kiruhura district have been urged to respect the occasion of Tarehe Sita as the country gears up to mark the 44th anniversary on February 6 and acknowledge the role played by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in serving the citizens.
Tarehe Sita, which translates to “6th Day” in Swahili, is observed annually to mark the day when 27 armed men and 15 unarmed commandos led by Gen.(rtd) Yoweri Kaguta Museveni stormed Kabamba barracks on February 6th, 1981 marking the beginning of the liberation struggle that lasted five years in the jungles of Luwero.
In preparation for the celebrations, UPDF soldiers have been spotted cleaning the environment in a number of areas a gesture that Afande Apollo Mabati, Special Assistant Presidential Adviser on Citizen Veterans says symbolizes the cooperation between the army and the people.
Speaking to Kazo FM, Mabati emphasized the importance of the day saying that the UPDF’s community service is a demonstration of their commitment to serving the citizens.
Robert Rwakandare, Director of Political Mobilization in State House has stressed that every 6th of February is a significant day for Ugandans, as it reminds them that the army is a people’s army. He added that the UPDF’s efforts to clean and work for citizens on this day contributes to a peaceful and stable country.
Mr. Rwakandare also used the opportunity to caution Ugandans against tribalism and religionism particularly in political leadership and urged Ugandans to remain united.
This year’s Tarehe Sita celebrations will be hosted in the Greater Masaka region. The occasion is expected to bring together various stakeholders, including government officials, UPDF personnel and civilians to reflect on the country’s history and the role of the army in protecting and serving the nation.
