Apac, Uganda – Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) of Apac District, Jonal Okot, has issued a stern warning against any form of corruption or bribery in the ongoing recruitment of police constables and prison warders.
While applauding the government under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for creating employment opportunities for Ugandan youth, Okot emphasized that the recruitment process must remain fair and transparent.
Speaking to our reporter on Friday March 14, 2025, while flagging off Apac Senior Secondary Schools Girls football tournament 2025, Okot stressed that these opportunities are not merely jobs but a call to serve and protect the nation.
Okot praised President Museveni’s leadership for championing women’s empowerment and inclusivity. He highlighted how girls now thrive in sports, politics, and development programs once seen as male-dominated.
Encouraging young girls to take sports seriously, he emphasized its potential for scholarships, employment, and financial success. “Sports is no longer just leisure—it’s a career,” he said.
He urged those applying to understand the weight of responsibility that comes with being part of the Uganda Police Force (UPF) or the Uganda Prisons Service (UPS).
“This work is about sacrifice and patriotism. If you are looking for just a job, then stay at home. These positions are for those who have the love and dedication to serve Uganda selflessly,” Okot stated.
In his address, Okot strongly condemned reports of individuals soliciting money from job seekers with false promises of securing them recruitment slots.
He cautioned that any person caught engaging in such fraudulent activities, regardless of their status as a political or civil leader, would face the full force of the law.
“I have already received reports that some people are asking for money to facilitate connections for these jobs. Let them be warned—I will have them arrested. Recruitment into the security forces is free of charge and based purely on merit. No one should deceive or extort money from applicants,” Okot warned.
He also called out some Local Council (LC1) chairpersons who have allegedly been charging between UGX 5,000 and UGX 10,000 for stamping recommendation letters. Reminding them that government-issued stamps are free, he warned that those found guilty of such misconduct would be held accountable.
The Uganda Police Force has announced the recruitment of 10,000 Probationer Police Constables, while the Uganda Prisons Service is hiring 402 warders and wardresses on a replacement basis.
Candidates are required to meet specific academic and physical fitness standards, and applications must be submitted to designated offices within the stipulated deadlines.
Okot emphasized that all recruitment processes are free of charge and warned applicants against falling prey to conmen.
He encouraged youth who meet the requirements to apply but reminded them that the positions demand hard work, commitment, and discipline.
As recruitment continues, Okot reassured the public that his office will remain vigilant in ensuring transparency and fairness. He urged community members to report any cases of bribery or extortion to authorities.
“This is an opportunity to serve Uganda, and we must ensure it is given to those who truly deserve it,” he concluded.
Authorities continue to emphasize that integrity and meritocracy remain at the core of the process, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fighting corruption at all levels with the recruitment deadlines fast approaching,
