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On Monday, March 4, 2024, Martin Okoth Ochola, the former Inspector General of Police (IGP), officially handed over the reins of leadership to his Deputy, Maj. Gen. Geoffrey Tumusiime Katsigazi. Ochola, who served in the Uganda Police Force for 36 years, chose not to renew his contract, citing personal and domestic reasons that required his attention. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Ochola expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the institution and outlined his achievements during his tenure.
In his speech, Ochola reflected on his long and distinguished career in the police force, spanning over three decades. He joined the force in 1988 and held various positions, including Deputy IGP, Director of Special Duties, Director of CID, and Commissioner of Legal Department, among others. In March 2018, he was appointed as the Inspector General of Police, a position he held for six years until his retirement.
During his tenure as IGP, Ochola focused on professionalizing and rebuilding the image of the Uganda Police Force. With the support and guidance of the President and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, he led efforts to improve policing and create a sense of calmness and unity within the institution. Ochola credited his achievements to the dedicated officers and staff who worked tirelessly to fulfill the force’s constitutional mandate.
Ochola’s decision to retire was influenced by personal and domestic issues, which he had communicated to the Minister of Internal Affairs earlier in January 2024. Despite his retirement, Ochola expressed his commitment to the ongoing mission of the Uganda Police Force and urged his successor and the incoming leadership to continue the work of professionalizing the institution.
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As he bid farewell to his colleagues and partners in law enforcement, Ochola expressed his gratitude to the President, the Uganda Police Authority, fellow service chiefs, and development partners for their support and cooperation. He also thanked his family for their understanding and support throughout his career.
Looking ahead, Ochola acknowledged that not all institutional challenges could be resolved during his tenure and outlined unfinished issues in his handover report. He expressed confidence in the incoming leadership’s ability to address these challenges and wished them success in their endeavors.
In conclusion, Ochola expressed his gratitude to everyone who had been part of his journey in the Uganda Police Force. He reflected on the fond memories of his accomplishments and hoped that the force would continue to be a beacon of excellence and positive change in law enforcement.
The retirement of Martin Okoth Ochola marks the end of an era in the Uganda Police Force. His long and distinguished career has left an indelible mark on the institution, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of police officers. As he embarks on the next chapter of his life, Ochola leaves behind a legacy of dedication, professionalism, and service to the nation.
Martin Okoth Ochola: A Career Overview
Martin Okoth Ochola was born on September 19, 1958, in Agumiti village, Tororo District, Uganda. He received his education at various institutions, including Abweli Primary School, Rock View Primary School, Kisoko Boys Primary School, and Namilyango College. He later studied law at Makerere University, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1983.
After completing his legal studies, Ochola worked as a legal assistant in Mbale District and Kampala City Council before joining the Uganda Police Force in January 1988. Over the years, he held several positions within the force, including Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police, Officer in Charge of Airport Security at Entebbe International Airport, and Deputy Director of Criminal Investigations.
In August 2011, Ochola was appointed Deputy Inspector General of Police, and in March 2018, he was elevated to the position of Inspector General of Police. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a commitment to professional policing and law enforcement, earning respect and admiration from his colleagues and the public alike.
As he retires from the Uganda Police Force, Martin Okoth Ochola leaves behind a legacy of leadership, integrity, and dedication to duty. His contributions to law enforcement in Uganda will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
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