Nairobi, Kenya — The notion of the apolitical military, a concept deeply ingrained in the fabric of many African nations, has faced a critical challenge in recent events.
The Uganda military’s pre-dawn siege on media houses, led by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who expressed disbelief in a free press on social media, has cast a stark light on the complex relationship between military and political influence.
The incident in Uganda follows a pattern that is not unique.
In Kenya, Article 239 (3) of the constitution mandates that the armed forces be apolitical and subordinate to civil authority.
However, the reality has been different, with each president since independence assuming the role of commander in chief. This institutional dissonance, as highlighted by Dr. Wairimu Mukuria, a retired Major of the Kenya Defense Forces, demands a re-examination of the myth of apolitical militaries.
Dr. Mukuria points out that military appointments and active duty service are at the command of the commander in chief, and during times of war, the decision-making process lies with both the commander in chief and parliament.
The myth of an apolitical military is further perpetuated by soldiers’constitutional liberties to vote, contribute to parties, and attend political rallies.
In Kenya’s case, the military has been involved in a variety of political activities, from environmental devastation to the management of the Kenya Meat Commission, and the construction of stadiums.
The military’s involvement in political matters is a stark reminder that the apolitical myth is, in fact, a political construct that allows elected leaders to evade responsibility for their actions.
The Uganda military’s siege on media houses, despite the constitutional guarantee of freedom of the press, and Kenya’s historical and ongoing military political involvement underscore the need for accountability and transparency in military-political relationships. KICKER: As the world watches the unfolding events in Uganda and reflects on the role of the military in political affairs, it becomes increasingly clear that the myth of the apolitical military is one that requires re-evaluation. Understanding the true nature of the military’s political engagement is essential for ensuring that these forces remain accountable and act in the best interests of the populations they are sworn to protect.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Panafricanvisions
Source: Pan African Visions
