Colonel Deo Akiiki has been named Military Assistant to Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, marking a significant shift in the UPDF’s leadership structure.
This Deo Akiiki appointment leverages the Colonel’s extensive communications background for a critical advisory role.
Veteran Military Spokesperson Assumes Strategic Position
Colonel Akiiki announced his new position on Friday, February 28, expressing deep appreciation for the trust placed in him by UPDF leadership.
“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 stated.
His appointment takes immediate effect, creating a vacancy in the defence and military deputy spokesperson position at Mbuya headquarters.
The appointment suggests potential further reorganization within UPDF’s communication structure.
Col Chris Magezi, who has functioned as Gen Muhoozi’s unofficial spokesperson, may be reassigned under Acting Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye‘s direction as part of this restructuring.
Decades of Military Communications Experience
With over 20 years dedicated to military public relations, Col Akiiki brings substantial experience to his new role alongside Gen Muhoozi.
His extensive career includes media coverage of critical military operations since 2004:
- The campaign against Lord’s Resistance Army in northern Uganda
- Karamoja disarmament initiatives
- UPDF peacekeeping missions in Somalia
- Operation Lightning Thunder in DR Congo
For seven consecutive years, he served as UPDF’s deputy spokesperson, engaging with both domestic and international media on security matters, building expertise that will enhance the Deo Akiiki – Muhoozi partnership.
Responsibilities in New Strategic Position
“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,” Akiiki emphasized.
As Military Assistant to the Chief of Defence Forces, Col Akiiki will undertake crucial support functions spanning both operational and administrative domains.
In his new capacity, Col Akiiki will provide strategic counsel on defence matters and special operations while coordinating communication between Gen Muhoozi, various military units, and government agencies.
The appointment leverages his extensive media relations background, indicating a renewed focus on strategic messaging and public image management for UPDF.
Additionally, he will oversee administrative functions including the CDF’s scheduling, briefings, and official correspondence.
Concluding his acceptance statement, Col Akiiki affirmed his commitment with the Swahili phrase “Mungu pamoja Nasi” (God is with us).
