Tensions within Uganda’s military establishment have escalated after the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, issued a public threat to arrest Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, a former deputy CDF and current presidential advisor.
In a post on social media platform X, Gen. Muhoozi expressed his intention to arrest Gen. Elwelu, stating, “He is completely unworthy of our great Army! He better run as fast as his small legs can carry him.” The post, which has since gone viral, left many wondering about the underlying reasons for the sudden outburst. Muhoozi, who has served in various senior military positions, did not elaborate on the specifics of why he believes Elwelu should be arrested, nor did he offer any evidence to support his claims.
Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, a career military officer, is no stranger to controversy. He played a prominent role in the military’s operations in the Teso and Karamoja regions, particularly during the brutal military operation in Kasese. The operation resulted in a large number of civilian casualties and the arrest of King Charles Wesley Mumbere of the Rwenzururu Kingdom. Elwelu’s role in this operation has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations, leading to his eventual sanctioning by the United States for alleged violations of human rights.
Currently, Elwelu serves as the special advisor to President Yoweri Museveni, monitoring government activities in the Teso and Karamoja sub-regions. His position has made him a significant figure in Ugandan politics, but it has also made him a target of political rivals within the UPDF and beyond.
The threat of arrest has raised serious questions about the state of relations within Uganda’s military leadership. Speculation is rife about internal power struggles and potential rifts within the ruling establishment. Whether Gen. Muhoozi’s bold statement is a sign of growing discontent within the UPDF or part of a wider political maneuver remains to be seen.
As of now, Gen. Elwelu has not publicly responded to Muhoozi’s comments, and it is unclear what further actions, if any, will follow in this ongoing military saga.