The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces (D/CDF), Lt Gen Peter Elwelu, has called on people to work together and maintain the peace in the country for social and economic transformation to progress.
”We all need to work together in harmony and love one another because Uganda is our country, and we need to protect it.”
He made the remarks on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Wilson Mbadi during the CDF dinner at Lake View Hotel in Mbarara City.
He thanked the good shepherd, President Museveni for leading the country and ensuring that peace exists all over the country. “We have a good shepherd who looks after everyone,” he observed, adding that leadership is a question of time, and you don’t need only to struggle for it but rather be guided to it.
Lt Gen Elwelu also reminded guests that there is time for everything, noting that this is the time to remember the sacrifices of the founders of the People’s Revolution.
“The present depends on what other people sacrificed and can be turned down anytime, so we need to protect it,” he concluded.
He further thanked Mbarara locals for remembering to celebrate with UPDF and not letting them down.
The UPDF Chief for Civil-Military Cooperation Brig Gen Emmanuel Rwashande commended locals for supporting the liberation struggle.
He added that UPDF’s success is hinged on its special relationship with the population and not on military superiority.
Hon. Ritah Atukwasa, the Woman Member of Parliament for Mbarara district thanked UPDF for sacrificing to protect the country and appreciated the inclusion of women in this noble cause.
The Resident City Commissioner for Mbarara City Lt Col (Rtd) Fred Mwesigye thanked security forces for liberating and putting a recognisable mark on the development of the country. “We need to sustain where we have reached,” the RCC urged locals, and further lauded UPDF for being a pro-people army.
Mr. Robert Kakyebezi, the Mayor of Mbarara City, thanked UPDF for holding the main celebrations in the city.
He urged people to remain united to protect peace and stability. “When we remain united, we shall stay together,” he noted.
The dinner was also attended by local and religious leaders, General officers, UPDF Officers, Representatives from Police and Prisons, and the business community, among other invited guests.
Guests were entertained by Rutaba cultural group. The dinner was held in commemoration of the 42nd National Tarehe Sita Anniversary and Defence Forces Week activities, held in the Greater Mbarara Sub Region.