The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has said that retired Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu will face the UPDF General Court Martial, dismissing claims that he surrendered under an agreement with President Yoweri Museveni guaranteeing his safety.
In a statement, UPDF Acting Director of Defence Public Information Col. Chris Magezi said Elwelu would be held accountable for his actions, insisting that no one in the security forces is above the law, regardless of their rank or retirement status.
Magezi explained that Elwelu surrendered peacefully after security forces closed in on him, leaving him with no viable alternative.
He also dismissed reports that Museveni, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, had promised to protect the retired general in exchange for his surrender.
“At no point did the President and Commander-in-Chief, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, offer Elwelu assurances for his personal safety,” Magezi said.
He added that Museveni has full confidence in the security forces to take whatever measures are necessary to maintain peace, order and stability in the country.
According to Magezi, the President expects all security personnel, including those serving in the Reserve Force, to maintain discipline and obey the laws of Uganda. He said Elwelu would therefore have to answer for his actions before the military court.
Elwelu was arrested on Monday in Soroti City and subsequently transferred to Kampala, where he is reportedly being held ahead of his court martial proceedings.
However, Senior Presidential Advisor Charles Elasu earlier told New Vision that Elwelu was doing well and had been provided with accommodation at Makindye.
Elasu said he had contacted Deputy Army Commander Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, who assured him that the retired general was safe. He added that Elwelu had been given a three-bedroom house and allowed to choose his own cook.
Security sources at Mbuya have indicated that Makindye Military Barracks is among the facilities where senior army officers are detained before appearing before the General Court Martial.
Elwelu’s arrest follows a public announcement by Army Commander Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba on 27 October, in which he accused the retired general of treason and announced that he had been demoted to the rank of Private.
Kainerugaba also ordered Elwelu’s arrest, claiming that guns had been discovered at his home. He further directed security forces to arrest Elwelu’s wife and about 20 former soldiers.
