President Museveni Presides Over Retirement of Seven Senior UPDF Officers
Entebbe, Uganda — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, also Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Yestarday officiated at the retirement ceremony of seven senior army officers at State House, Entebbe.
The retirees are Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, Lt. Gen. Francis Ben Okello, Maj. Gen. Hudson Mukasa, Maj. Gen. George Igumba, Brig. Gen. John Byuma, Brig. Gen. Dominic B. Twesigomwe, and Brig. Gen. Augustine Kamyuka Kyazze.
In his address, President Museveni expressed gratitude to the officers and to all who contributed to Uganda’s liberation struggle, including those who lost their lives.
“We shall all die, but the question is—after having done what? I praise God that you, along with the population that supported us, took the right side of history. That is why Uganda is where it is today,” he said.
The President noted that the UPDF’s journey from a small force to a modern, professional army has been blessed by God.
“You can see this work has truly been blessed. We must always thank God for guiding us in all these efforts,” he added.
He also revealed that the government has improved retirement benefits due to the country’s stronger economy.
“I don’t want my generals to retire in poverty. Now that the economy has improved, we can address salaries and retirement packages. This is good money, but use it wisely—avoid risky investments,” he advised.
Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, commended the generals for their service and acknowledged God’s role in their journey.
Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt. Gen. Samuel Okiding, thanked President Museveni for his visionary leadership, the Defence Ministry for its support, and CDF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for strategic leadership that has strengthened the UPDF. He also praised the retirees for their dedication and sacrifice.
Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Lt. Gen. Elwelu thanked God for the gift of life and the opportunity to serve the nation honorably.
“Your Excellency, this is a great day for the seven of us. We thank you for your mentorship and for allowing us to serve under the UPDF,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by senior Ministry of Defence officials, UPDF leadership, family members, and friends of the retirees.
