Gen David Sejusa has said that although much has been done, a lot is yet to be achieved to consolidate the victories and the mission to liberate Africa, adding that there is no greater honour than serving the people.
“Therefore, continue training, take advantage of the opportunities being provided, make sure that you deepen your ideological horizons but above all, love your nation and honor the people of Uganda always, “said Sejusa
Sejusa made the remarks as 48 general officers of the UPDF retired from the office in a function that was held at State House, Entebbe.
They were meant to be 49 before the death of Gen. Elly Tumwine, who passed away a few days ago at the age of 68.
Sejusa on behalf of retiring officers praised President Museveni for providing leadership during the struggle, the army leadership and the people of Uganda without which there wouldn’t be peace.
“I am proud to belong to NRA/UPDF, which has made incredible strides. I thank the people of Uganda from all regions for their sacrifices. We all know there was a phase in our struggle when our civilian population was the vanguard. They were our eyes, the ears, our protectors. They fed us and this phase took a bigger part of 1981. They gathered intelligence, they carried out reconnaissance missions for us to acquire small arms and so on, “he noted.
He explained that if the population was not on their side, there would be no NRA/UPDF and certainly NRM, adding that it’s not easy to keep a country peaceful for all these years.
He saluted the President for the opportunity to serve the people of Uganda and for the victories and achievements registered.
“We have shared a lot but we have served Uganda and I am sure Uganda will prosper,” he said.
The Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi thanked the President for allowing the retiring officers to serve in various capacities and asked them to continue using their experience wherever they will go.
“Retirement is a golden gesture to release them when they’re still energetic. So, General officers retiring today, don’t just retire from UPDF; have something to retire to so that you can keep mentally alert, physically fit and productive,” Mbadi said.
Among the notable retirees most of whom are part of the 1986 National Resistance Army (NRA) liberation group that brought the current government into power include RO 00031 Gen David Sejusa who is a former Coordinator of Intelligence Services, and Lt Gen Andrew Gutti, formerly Chairman of the General Court Martial.
Others include, RO 00087 Lt. Gen John Mugume, RO 00038 Maj Gen Steven Kashaka, RO 00073 Maj. Gen Joram Kakaari
Tumwine, RO 00122 Maj. Gen Manon Katirima Phinehas, RO 00167 Maj. Gen Elly Kayanja, RO 00266 Maj. Gen Geoffrey.
Balaba Muheesi and Uganda’s most decorated female military officer, RO 00217 Lt Gen Proscovia Nalweyiso who is currently serving as Special Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security. Over the years, Lt Gen Nalweyiso has served in several command and staff appointments including commanding a female wing of the NRA in 1986.
