President Museveni has advised seven army generals who retired to use their packages wisely and avoid putting money in risky ventures. Museveni was seeing off the generals at State House Entebbe.
The retirees included Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, Lt. Gen. Francis Ben Okello, Maj. Gen. Hudson Mukasa, Maj. Gen. George Igumba, Brig. Gen. John Byuma, Brig. Gen. Dominic B. Twesigomwe and Brig. Gen. Augustine Kamyuka Kyazze.
“I don’t want my generals to retire in poverty. We said since the economy has improved, now it’s time to do something about the salaries and retirement benefits of the soldiers. Now this the good money we are talking about,” said Museveni as he advised the retirees to use their package wisely and avoid investing in risky ventures.
He further noted that since inception, the work of the UPDF was blessed by God, explaining that the army started small to now a modern and professional force.
“You can see that this work is really blessed by God. Therefore, when we are here, the first thing we should do is to thank God for blessing us in all those efforts,” he said.
The minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Oboth Oboth commended the generals for serving their nation diligently, saying that God has been on their side throughout their entire journey of service.
“We thank God for you. We also thank God for your families,” he said.
The Deputy CDF, Lt. Gen. Samuel Okiding thanked Museveni for the visionary leadership that has enabled him to steer Uganda’s development. He thanked the ministry of Defence leadership for always supporting the UPDF and also hailed the CDF, Gen. Muhoozi Kaneirugaba for his strategic leadership that has transformed the army.
Lt. Gen. Elwelu, the most senior officer, spoke on behalf of the retirees. He thanked God for the gift of life and for enabling them to serve their nation for all these years until today as they retire honorably.
“Your Excellency, this is a great day for the seven of us who are retiring today,” Elwelu said, as he thanked President Museveni for the mentorship and giving them a chance to serve under the UPDF.
