On October 27, 2026, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, ordered the removal of Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu from his military positions and stripped him of his military titles. Elwelu, a long-serving military officer, was accused of treason after over 20 individuals, including his wife, were arrested for allegedly working with him. Gen Muhoozi stated that Elwelu's actions were a threat to national security.
According to Gen Muhoozi, Elwelu was planning to stage a rebellion against the government. A search of Elwelu's home in Teso uncovered an arsenal of weapons, including AK-47 rifles, sub-machine guns, and ammunition. Elwelu's wife, who had been allegedly involved in his plans, was also arrested. The military has not released an official statement confirming Elwelu's removal, but Gen Muhoozi's post on X suggests that the action has been taken.
Lt. Gen. Elwelu has had a long and distinguished military career, joining the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) in 1987. He has held various positions, including commanding operations in Somalia and fighting against the Lord's Resistance Army. Elwelu served as Commander of the Second Division of UPDF from 2013 to 2017 and was appointed Chief of Land Forces in 2017.
Elwelu's rise through the military ranks was rapid, and he was promoted to Lieutenant General in 2019. He served as Deputy Chief of Defence Forces from 2021 until March 2024. Despite his achievements, Elwelu's recent actions have raised concerns about his loyalty to the government. Gen Muhoozi's decision to remove him from his positions has been seen as a significant move to maintain stability within the military.
Andrew Mwenda, a journalist and close friend of Gen Muhoozi, stated that Elwelu had been using his Christian principles as a cover for his alleged plans to overthrow the government. Mwenda claimed that Elwelu's actions were a betrayal of the trust placed in him as a senior military officer. The incident has sparked debate about the loyalty of some military officers and the government's efforts to maintain security.
The UPDF has not released a detailed statement on the matter, but Gen Muhoozi's actions suggest that the military is taking steps to address potential threats to national security. Elwelu's removal from his positions and the arrest of his associates have sent a strong message that treasonous activities will not be tolerated. The incident has raised questions about the stability of the military and the government's ability to maintain control.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Elwelu's removal will affect the military and the government. The incident has highlighted the challenges faced by the government in maintaining security and stability in the region. Gen Muhoozi's actions have demonstrated the military's commitment to protecting national security, but the incident has also raised concerns about the loyalty of some military officers.
Key points
- Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba orders removal of Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu from military ranks, accusing him of treason.
- Elwelu's removal follows the arrest of over 20 individuals, including his wife, for allegedly working with him.
- The incident has raised questions about the stability of the military and the government's ability to maintain control.
