Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has broken his silence on the recent developments involving former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, claiming that the alleged rebellion lasted only one week before security forces crushed it.
In a strongly worded statement, Muhoozi said Elwelu was fortunate to have surrendered after receiving instructions from him, warning that the former army deputy commander would have faced a deadly outcome had he chosen not to comply.
“Elwelu’s ‘rebellion’ lasted for one week before we crushed it. He was lucky he surrendered as I instructed him to. Otherwise, he would be in the ground right now,” Muhoozi stated.
The CDF went further to issue a warning to anyone who threatens Uganda’s peace and security, insisting that nobody would be spared regardless of their position, influence or previous military service.
“In Uganda, whoever you are, you’ll be destroyed if you threaten peace and security!” he added.
Muhoozi’s remarks come days after Elwelu reportedly surrendered to military authorities following negotiations involving President Yoweri Museveni, senior military officers and influential political leaders from the Teso sub-region.
The former deputy army commander was reportedly brought back from Soroti by current Deputy CDF Lt Gen Sam Okiding following a directive from Museveni. He is currently accommodated in a three-bedroom house, where he is allowed to have his personal cook prepare his meals as he awaits a meeting with the President.
Elwelu’s return followed an ultimatum issued by Muhoozi, who had warned that the former army commander risked being declared a rebel if he failed to report to military authorities. The allegations surrounding his alleged recruitment of rebels and the arrest of his wife and several soldiers have also attracted attention as investigations continue.
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