Retired Lt Gen Peter Elwelu reportedly went into hiding after becoming concerned that unknown individuals were tracking his movements following Uganda’s general elections, according to a relative who spoke about the former senior military officer’s situation. The revelation has added another dimension to the growing controversy surrounding Elwelu, whose whereabouts have attracted public attention following recent statements by Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The relative, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter, said Elwelu’s concerns about his personal safety began before the latest public exchanges involving the two military figures. According to the family member, the retired general noticed suspicious activity around his movements and became increasingly worried about what might happen to him.
The family member reportedly described the situation as extremely difficult, saying Elwelu had serious fears for his life. The decision to go into hiding was presented as a response to those concerns, although the identity and intentions of the people allegedly following him have not been independently established.
The reported development comes after Muhoozi made a series of public statements about Elwelu on social media. The CDF reportedly described the retired general as a “traitor,” claimed to have demoted him to the rank of Private and threatened to declare him a rebel if he failed to surrender. These remarks have intensified public interest in the former commander’s circumstances.
Muhoozi also previously stated that he wanted soldiers to bring Elwelu to him alive because he wanted to talk to him. The statement prompted questions about the nature of the disagreement between the two military figures and whether any formal security operation was under way to locate the retired general.
Elwelu is a former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces who held senior responsibilities within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces during his military career. His reported decision to go into hiding has therefore drawn attention because of his former position and the serious nature of the public allegations being exchanged.
However, the claims that unidentified individuals were tracking Elwelu remain allegations attributed to his relative. The available account does not identify the people allegedly following him or provide independent evidence establishing their intentions. It is also unclear whether Elwelu has made a public statement explaining his whereabouts or confirming the circumstances described by his family member.
The reported fears surrounding Elwelu have added to growing questions about his safety and the developments involving him and the military leadership. Further information from the family, the UPDF or other relevant authorities would be needed to establish his current situation, clarify the allegations and determine whether any formal action has been taken in connection with the dispute.
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