The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed that retired Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu will face the UPDF General Court Martial, the army’s highest court, to answer for his actions. According to Col. Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Elwelu will be held fully accountable for his actions. The UPDF dismissed reports of a deal between Elwelu and President Museveni guaranteeing his personal safety.
Col. Magezi stated that no deal exists between Elwelu and the President, and anyone who breaks the laws of Uganda will be held to account without fear or favour. He added that Elwelu gave himself up peacefully due to the security forces closing in on him, with no viable alternative courses of action at his disposal. The President has full confidence in the judgment and actions of the security forces to maintain peace, order, and stability in the country.
The UPDF emphasized that President Museveni insists on unwavering discipline from all members of the security forces, including those serving in the Reserve Force. Elwelu’s actions led to his arrest on Monday in Soroti City and transfer to Makindye Military Barracks in Kampala, where he is reportedly being detained. According to security sources, Makindye is where most senior army officers are detained before being taken to the General Court Martial.
Earlier, Senior Presidential Advisor Charles Elasu told Uganda Radio Network that he had contacted army officials and was assured Elwelu was okay. Elasu said Elwelu was given a three-bedroom house in Makindye where he is staying and was allowed to choose his own cook. This development comes after Elwelu’s quiet retirement ended last month on October 27, when Gen. Muhoozi posted on X that Elwelu was a traitor and had been demoted to Private.
Gen. Muhoozi ordered Elwelu’s arrest, claiming guns had been found at his home, and also ordered the arrest of Elwelu’s wife and about 20 former soldiers. The UPDF stated that Elwelu will face the General Court Martial, and the President has confidence in the security forces to handle the situation. The army’s actions are aimed at maintaining discipline and order within the security forces.
The case against Elwelu has garnered significant attention, with many awaiting the outcome of the General Court Martial. The UPDF has assured the public that the process will be fair and just, with Elwelu being held accountable for his actions. The incident has highlighted the importance of discipline within the security forces and the consequences of breaching the law.
As Elwelu faces the General Court Martial, the UPDF has reiterated its commitment to upholding the law and maintaining peace and stability in the country. The outcome of the court martial will be closely watched, and the UPDF has assured that it will follow due process in handling the case. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability within the security forces.
Key points
- Retired Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu to face UPDF General Court Martial for his actions.
- No deal exists between Elwelu and President Museveni for personal safety.
- Elwelu was arrested on Monday in Soroti City and transferred to Makindye Military Barracks in Kampala.
