By CHIMPREPORTS
Police Chief Okoth Ochola, aged 66, has completed his handover report in anticipation of his retirement from the law enforcement body later this year.
Appointed as Police Chief on March 16, 2018, to succeed General Kale Kayihura, Ochola’s five-year contract is set to conclude on March 16, 2024. There is uncertainty about the renewal of Ochola’s contract by President Museveni, and there are indications that Ochola is set to leave the police force, as reported by anonymous sources.
Associates close to Ochola have mentioned that he has spent the past few months updating his handover report in preparation for his departure. Before his current role, Ochola served as the Deputy Inspector General of Police, working under IGP Kayihura.
Ochola assumed leadership during a period of heightened criticism against the police force for human rights violations and the suppression of civil liberties. His tenure witnessed the disbandment of several police units accused of illegal arrests, detentions, and involvement in criminal activities.
Under Ochola’s leadership, there was increased investment in security infrastructure, including the implementation of security cameras and the construction of housing facilities for senior officers.
Profile:
Born on September 19, 1958, in Agumiti village, Tororo District, Ochola attended Abweli Primary School, Rock View Primary School, and Kisoko Boys Primary School before completing his primary leaving examinations. He pursued further education at Namilyango College and Makerere University, obtaining a Bachelor of Laws degree in 1983 and a postgraduate diploma in legal practice in 1984.
After working in private law practice, Ochola joined the Uganda Police Force in January 1988. Over the years, he held various positions, rising through the ranks to become the Inspector General of Police in 2018. His tenure has been marked by efforts to address human rights concerns, enhance security infrastructure, and reform police units. Ochola’s career has been characterized by a commitment to law enforcement and public service.
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