Teso Leaders Condemn Former Minister Ecweru Over 24-Hour Ultimatum to Lt Gen Elwelu

A storm of controversy has erupted across the Teso sub-region following recent remarks made by former State Minister for Works, Musa Ecweru, directed at retired Lt Gen Peter Elwelu. Dozens of regional leaders and diaspora representatives have publicly condemned the former minister, demanding an immediate retraction of his statements.

The backlash stems from a press briefing where Mr Ecweru gave the former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces a strict 24-hour ultimatum. During the address, the former minister warned Lt Gen Elwelu to surrender to security forces or face lethal consequences, suggesting the retired general was involved in destabilizing the region. Mr Ecweru further urged him to seek refuge through cultural and religious figures, such as the Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese or the Emorimor, to negotiate his safety.

Local leaders, however, have strongly rejected Mr Ecweru’s approach, labeling his remarks as opportunistic and a desperate bid to maintain political relevance. Voices from both home and abroad, including Italian-based engineer Philip Engaru, criticized the former minister for allegedly exploiting a tense security situation for personal political mileage. Meanwhile, family members and close associates indicate that Lt Gen Elwelu remains in hiding due to genuine concerns regarding his personal safety amidst mounting tensions.

As political observers continue to monitor the unfolding situation, the growing friction highlights deep divisions among key figures in the region. Leaders have called for calm, urging restraint and proper legal channels rather than public ultimatums and threats that could further inflame political instability.

Read more about this developing story on the Daily Monitor.