Patricia Apolot, a prominent Ugandan kickboxer and wife of retired Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu, has dismissed allegations that her husband is involved in organizing an armed rebellion. Apolot told the New Vision that her husband traveled to Kampala two weeks ago for prayer and has not returned home. She emphasized that her husband's prolonged periods of prayer were common and should not be interpreted as suspicious behavior.
Elwelu, a former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, is reportedly wanted over allegations of organizing an armed rebellion. However, Apolot expressed confidence that her husband would not engage in activities aimed at overthrowing the government. She described her husband as a loving patriot who dreams of a peaceful Uganda. Apolot and Elwelu married in 2017, and she believes her husband's character and values make it impossible for him to be involved in such activities.
According to Apolot, security personnel raided their home in Awoja, Soroti District, on Sunday at around 7:30 p.m. The officers, some dressed in military uniform and others in civilian clothes, questioned her about Elwelu's whereabouts. They confiscated two mobile phones belonging to Apolot and took phones belonging to her sisters. Although nobody was physically assaulted, Apolot claimed that she and others at the residence were confined indoors for several days as security personnel searched the property.
The search reportedly lasted about three hours, but officers remained at the home and restricted Apolot's movements until she was eventually allowed to leave and purchase food. Apolot denied reports that security personnel recovered firearms and ammunition from the residence. She explained that soldiers who usually guarded the home had been sent on leave before Elwelu traveled to Kampala.
Apolot's comments come amid reports that Elwelu is wanted by security agencies. The allegations against him have not been publicly confirmed, but the incident has raised concerns about the security situation in the country. Apolot's denial of the allegations and her characterization of Muhoozi as a "greedy liar" suggest that there may be a personal aspect to the dispute.
The incident at the Elwelu residence has sparked interest in the activities of the former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces. Elwelu's relationship with the current government and the military is not clear, and the allegations against him have raised questions about his current status. The Ugandan government has not officially commented on the allegations against Elwelu.
The case has also raised concerns about the treatment of civilians by security personnel. Apolot claimed that she and others at the residence were confined indoors for several days, and that their movements were restricted. The incident has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability in the security sector.
Key points
- Elwelu's wife denies allegations of terrorism against her husband.
- The search of the Elwelu residence reportedly lasted about three hours.
- Apolot characterizes Muhoozi as a "greedy liar".
