Legend: Brig Opolot the first Army commander
Nov 19, 2019
He was one of the key figures to emerge on Uganda’s military scene following independence in 1962.
Brig. Shaban Opolot was appointed Army Commander in 1964, becoming the first Ugandan to hold that office. He was one of the key figures to emerge on Uganda's military scene following independence in 1962.
He was deputized by Col. Idi Amin Dada. In the same year 1964, the three East African armies mutinied. In Kenya and Tanzania, the mutinous soldiers were punished while in Uganda, Obote rewarded them with promotions.
Premier Obote 1, President Mutesa & Army chief Shaban Opolot at state reception in Lugogo in 1962
Uganda's first Army Chief commander, Shaban Opolot 2nd from right