You Are Not the First and Last to Occupy That Office, So Stop the Excitement – Gen Elwelu Tells Off Gen Muhoozi

Retired UPDF General Elwelu has reportedly sent a strong warning to Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, cautioning him against what he describes as excessive excitement and threats directed at fellow army officers. His remarks come amid growing attention surrounding the military leadership and recent developments involving senior officers.

Gen Elwelu reportedly reminded Muhoozi that occupying the powerful office of CDF does not make him untouchable, stressing that leadership positions are temporary and that several people held the same office before him. He urged the army chief to understand the responsibilities that come with his position instead of behaving as though he had achieved something permanent.

In his pointed message, Elwelu reportedly told Muhoozi that being the son of President Yoweri Museveni should not make him feel that he has already succeeded in life. He emphasized that military leadership requires wisdom, patience and an understanding of the history of the institution rather than relying on one's family background or political connections.

"You are not the first and last to occupy that office which you are sitting in now. Ask those who first occupied it how they handled their work. Your father has spent 45 years in power; ask him how he did it. Otherwise, within one or a few years, you won't manage anything," Gen Elwelu reportedly warned.

The retired general's remarks are particularly significant because they come at a time when Muhoozi has attracted public attention over his comments and actions involving different military officers. His critics have previously questioned the manner in which disagreements within the army are handled, especially when senior officers become subjects of public statements and threats.

Gen Elwelu himself is reportedly in hiding following allegations raised by Muhoozi that he was involved in plans to overthrow the government. The allegations reportedly triggered a manhunt, putting the retired officer at the centre of a developing dispute involving powerful figures within Uganda's military establishment.

Elwelu's latest reported warning appears to challenge Muhoozi to reflect on the temporary nature of leadership and the importance of learning from those who previously occupied the CDF position. His message also raises broader questions about military discipline, respect among senior officers and how disagreements should be handled within an institution expected to maintain order.

As the situation continues to attract attention, the reported exchange adds another chapter to the ongoing tensions surrounding Uganda's military leadership. Whether Muhoozi will respond to Elwelu's remarks remains to be seen, but the retired general's message is clear: holding a powerful office today does not mean one will occupy it forever.