Retired Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) General Peter Elwelu has reportedly delivered a strong message to Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, warning him against becoming overly excited about occupying one of the country’s most powerful military positions. Elwelu reportedly reminded the army chief that leadership positions are temporary and that he is neither the first nor the last person to serve as CDF.
In his pointed remarks, Elwelu challenged Muhoozi to understand that occupying the office of CDF should come with responsibility, discipline and wisdom rather than excessive excitement or threats against fellow military officers. He reportedly urged him to learn from previous army commanders who held the same position and understand how they managed the responsibilities that came with military leadership.
Elwelu also reportedly reminded Muhoozi that being the son of President Yoweri Museveni should not make him believe that he has already achieved everything in life. He emphasized that family background and political connections should not replace personal discipline, experience and the ability to manage people within a professional institution.
“You are not the first and last to occupy that office which you are sitting in now. Ask those who first occupied it how they handled their work. Your father has spent 45 years in power; ask him how he did it. Otherwise, within one or a few years, you won’t manage anything,” Elwelu reportedly warned.
The remarks come at a time when Muhoozi has attracted considerable public attention over his statements concerning senior military officers and the handling of disagreements within the UPDF. His public comments have generated debate about military leadership, discipline and the importance of maintaining professional relationships among officers serving in the country’s armed forces.
Interestingly, Elwelu is himself at the centre of the reported disagreement after Muhoozi accused him of involvement in alleged plans to overthrow the government. The retired general has reportedly gone into hiding as security forces seek to establish his whereabouts following the allegations. However, the claims and circumstances surrounding the dispute have continued to attract public interest.
Elwelu’s reported message appears to challenge Muhoozi to appreciate the history of the military institution and recognise that occupying a senior position does not place anyone above accountability. He also raises questions about how senior officers should handle disagreements, particularly when public statements and threats risk creating tension within an institution that depends on discipline and unity.
As the disagreement continues to attract attention, Elwelu’s reported warning has added another twist to the unfolding developments surrounding Uganda’s military leadership. His central message is that power and positions are temporary, and those who occupy influential offices should remember that others came before them and others will eventually take over.
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