ISO: Brig. Balya hands over to Col. Kaka

Outgoing Internal Security Organisation chief, Brig. Ronnie Balya, who has a rich experience in espionage, spanning over 30 years, on Friday handed over office to Col. Kaka Bagyenda.

During the handover ceremony, which was conducted by Security Minister, Lt. Gen. Henry Tumukunde, the incoming head of the internal spy network has pledged to build on the legacy that Balya has left behind by using what he described as "scarce resources" allocated to ISO, to ensure the security of citizens.

"I thank the President for appointing me to head this sensitive organisation. It is an enormous task but I am ready for it. Comrade Brig. Balya has bequeathed to me a robust team and a legacy for all of us to celebrate," Kaka said, pledging to work very closely with all chiefs of various intelligence organisations in the country.

Balya, who has been appointed Uganda's ambassador to Juba, South Sudan, said he was grateful to President Yoweri Museveni for giving him an opportunity to serve the country not only in security circles but also in his new capacity as a diplomat.

"For 31 years since 1986 after the 7^th battalion, where I belonged, captured Kampala, I have been serving as an intelligence officer in various capacities. I am very grateful to President Museveni for giving me the opportunity to serve," he said.

As ISO chief, Balya was the chairperson of the Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC) and the secretary of the National Security Council, which is chaired by the President.