Parliament vets new IGP Byakagaba, deputy Ocaya

The Appointments Committee of Parliament Thursday, May 23, vetted and approved the newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr Abbas Byakagaba and his deputy, AIGP James Ocaya.

The duo separately appeared before the committee chaired by Speaker of Parliament Anita Among to be assessed whether they were competent to carry out the work.

By press time, the details of the closed proceedings of the committee had not yet been clear, but it was likely that they were approved.

Before one becomes IGP and deputy IGP, they must first be vetted by the committee and if found competent, they take the oath of office.

AIGP Byakagaba, who had already retired recently, was on May 17, 2024, appointed by President Yoweri Museveni to replace Martins Okoth-Ochola, who retired.

In the same vein, Gen Museveni also appointed AIGP Ocaya, formerly Director of Research and Planning, as deputy IGP, replacing Maj. Gen. Geoffrey Katsigazi, whose contract with the Police ends this month.

Speaking to journalists after the closed-door vetting exercise, the Leader of Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi said he declined to cast his vote in favor of their appointment until the duo furnishes parliament with a comprehensive plan on how they will address disgraceful living conditions for the officers.

The Nakawa West legislator emphasized the need to improve the welfare of security forces, particularly their living conditions as well as issues relating to their exodus SACCO.

Ssenyonyi stressed that addressing these concerns is crucial for the credibility and effectiveness of the police force.