11-year-old takes over Kayihura's office for a day

Gen. Kayihura discussing with the new IGP Elizabeth Atukunda

It was a dream comes true for 11-year-old Elizabeth Atukunda, a Primary Six pupil of Kampala Parents School as she took over the Inspector General of Police, Gen Kale Kayihura's office for a day. 

The takeover was on Friday at the Police headquarters in Naguru and it was in commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child slated for October 11. The day is meant to increase awareness of issues faced by girls around the world

By 8:00am, Atukunda was already waiting at the reception. At 9:00am, Kayihura arrived and immediately welcomed Atukunda, ushering her into her new office.

He immediately handed over the office and led her to the boardroom where she met with high-profile officers in the force.

During the meeting, the officers briefed her of their duties and also showed her some of the success they have so far achieved during their tenure with Kayihura.

Kayihura later led the new IGP to inspect a parade that was featuring children before she was led to the Jinja Road traffic lights where the children took part in controlling traffic.

At the lights the children also were able to speak to the bodaboda cyclists, the children requested the cyclists to always respect children, especially when they are transporting them and also when they find them on the way.

IGP Elizabeth Atukunda, called upon all stakeholders to always ensure that they protect the rights of children and also ensure that they are good parents to their children especially girls.

She also advised girls to resist all temptations that are bound to lead them to sin, such as early sex and drug abuse.

"Parents you have a responsibility to guide and to protect the rights of children by providing them with food, education and medical care.

"The leaders should also work hand in hand with parents to ensure that children are respected and protected," Atukunda noted.