Kampala — THE salary increment for soldiers was approved by Parliament, the army spokesperson has said.

Francis Kagolo reports that Maj. Paddy Ankunda was reacting to recent media reports stating that the increment was approved by the President with effect from October.

He, however, confirmed that the soldiers' pay had been increased by 10% and that this took effect in July.

"It is insinuated that by authorising such a pay rise, the President and Commander-in-Chief favours the army above other institutions. This is erroneous and misleading," Ankunda said.

He added that the pay rise increased the budget for the defence ministry by sh16b and not sh32b as had been reported.