Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has reportedly instructed security personnel not to kill former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Gen Peter Elwelu, but instead ensure that he is brought to him alive because he wants to have a personal conversation with the retired senior military officer. The remarks have attracted attention, adding another twist to the growing public controversy surrounding Elwelu.
In a statement attributed to Muhoozi, the CDF reportedly said he had instructed soldiers to ensure that Elwelu is not killed during any attempt to locate or apprehend him. “I have told our soldiers not to kill Elweru but to bring him to me alive. I want to talk to him,” Muhoozi reportedly said, suggesting that he is interested in meeting the former army commander face-to-face.
Although Muhoozi expressed his desire to speak with Elwelu, he did not explain what he intends to discuss with him or the circumstances that have prompted the reported instruction. It also remains unclear whether the military has launched any official operation to locate the former Deputy CDF or whether the statement was simply a public message directed at him.
Elwelu is a former senior officer of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) who previously served as Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, one of the most influential positions in the country’s military establishment. During his military career, he became a well-known figure within the security forces before eventually leaving the top leadership position following changes in the UPDF command structure.
The latest remarks come against the backdrop of growing public exchanges and controversial allegations involving Elwelu and individuals associated with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU). The disagreements have attracted considerable public interest, particularly because they involve personalities who have held influential positions within Uganda’s military and political establishment.
Muhoozi’s decision to publicly emphasise that Elwelu should be brought to him alive has consequently raised questions about the nature of their relationship and whether there are unresolved matters between the two military figures. His statement also leaves room for speculation about whether the intended conversation concerns Elwelu’s military history, recent allegations or other issues that have not yet been made public.
Given their respective positions and backgrounds within the UPDF, any developments involving the two generals are likely to attract attention from security observers and the wider public. Questions may also arise about the legal and institutional procedures that would govern any attempt to apprehend a former senior military officer.
For now, Muhoozi has made it clear in the reported statement that he wants an opportunity to speak with Elwelu personally and has instructed soldiers not to kill him. However, further clarification from the military leadership is needed to establish whether any formal operation is underway and what exactly the CDF hopes to achieve through the proposed meeting.
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