He Is Right! Muhoozi Throws Weight Behind Ecweru’s Tough Warning To Elwelu, Says He Fully Supports His Position

Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has publicly endorsed former State Minister for Works Musa Ecweru following his strong warning against anyone allegedly attempting to destabilise the Teso sub-region, particularly retired Lt Gen Peter Elwelu. Muhoozi said he completely supported Ecweru’s position in a message posted on his official X account on October 29, 2026.

"I thank Hon. Musa Ecweru for his very firm statement in the media against anyone fomenting trouble in Teso. Especially, Private Elweru. I completely support his position," Muhoozi wrote. His remarks came shortly after Ecweru issued a warning to Elwelu, urging him to surrender to security authorities rather than risk a confrontation.

During a press briefing in Soroti, Ecweru warned that Teso would not be allowed to return to the insecurity that affected the region in the past. He said former members of the Arrow Boys, an auxiliary force that helped government troops fight insurgents in eastern Uganda, could join security agencies in efforts to locate Elwelu.

Ecweru also urged Elwelu to surrender through trusted community leaders, including Soroti Catholic Diocese Bishop Joseph Eciru and Iteso cultural leaders. He offered to help facilitate a peaceful handover, but warned that the retired general could be killed if security personnel found him hiding and he resisted arrest.

Muhoozi’s endorsement comes amid serious allegations against Elwelu, whom the CDF has accused of treachery and involvement in activities aimed at destabilising the government. Muhoozi has also claimed that security forces have recovered hidden guns and ammunition and arrested individuals allegedly connected to the retired general. These allegations have not been independently established, and Elwelu has not publicly responded.

However, Ecweru’s remarks have also attracted criticism from some leaders and elders in Teso, who argue that threats of violence and proposals to involve former Arrow Boys could worsen tensions. Former Ugandan ambassador to Nigeria Nelson Ocheger and other community figures have urged authorities to handle the matter through established security institutions and due legal processes.

The controversy has placed Teso at the centre of a growing national security debate, particularly because of the region’s history of armed conflict. Ecweru has maintained that protecting the peace achieved after years of insurgency is his priority, while critics insist that allegations against Elwelu should be investigated without public threats or prejudgment.

By openly backing Ecweru, Muhoozi has reinforced the CDF's position that anyone suspected of threatening security in Teso should be dealt with. The situation remains tense as questions continue over Elwelu’s whereabouts, the allegations against him and the role that security agencies will play in resolving the matter.