Seven Senior Army Officers Retire as Museveni Pledges Better Packages

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Commander-in-Chief of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), presided over the retirement ceremony of seven senior army officers on Friday at State House, Entebbe.

The retirees included 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 thanked the officers — and others who died during the liberation struggle — for their contribution to Uganda’s peace and stability.

“We shall all die, but die after having done what? I praise God that you and all of us, together with the population that supported us, took the right side of history. That is why Uganda is now where it is,” he said.

He noted that from its humble beginnings, the UPDF had grown into a modern, professional force, attributing its success to God’s blessing.

“The first thing we should do is thank God for blessing us in all these efforts,” he added.

The President revealed that improved economic performance has enabled government to provide a good retirement package for the officers.

“I don’t want my generals to retire in poverty. Since the economy has improved, we have worked on salaries and retirement benefits. Use your package wisely and avoid risky investments,” he advised.

Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth commended the retirees for their diligent service, while Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Samuel Okiding thanked President Museveni for his visionary leadership and the CDF, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for steering the UPDF’s transformation.

Speaking on behalf of the retirees, Lt. Gen. Elwelu expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and to President Museveni for his mentorship.

“This is a great day for the seven of us who are retiring today,” he said.

The ceremony was attended by Ministry of Defence officials, UPDF leadership, family members, and other guests.