The Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 4 Infantry Division, Major General Felix Busizoori, has applauded veteran politician Rt. Hon. Gen. Moses Ali for his longstanding contribution to peace, national unity and development.
The message was delivered by Colonel Nathan Bainomugisha, the 501 Brigade Commander for the Zoka/Apaa areas, during a victory celebration held at Paridi Stadium in Adjumani District on Friday.
The celebration was organised in honour of Gen. Moses Ali following his victory as Member of Parliament for Adjumani West County in the 12th Parliament, as well as the swearing-in of Adjumani District Chairperson John Anyanzo Ambayo. The event attracted hundreds of supporters, political leaders, cultural groups and invited guests.
Entertainment from Ayije Band and traditional dancers kept the crowd energised as leaders delivered messages centred on reconciliation, patriotism and service to the nation.
Speaking on behalf of Maj. Gen. Felix Busizoori, Col. Nathan Bainomugisha congratulated Gen. Moses Ali for what he described as a lifetime of distinguished service to Uganda.
“Today we gather not only to celebrate a man, but to honour a living pillar of our nation’s history,” Col. Bainomugisha said. “Your contributions to the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, to Adjumani, and to Uganda at large remind us that true leadership is service, and service is sacrifice.”
The colonel described Gen. Moses Ali as a key figure in Uganda’s political, military and economic transformation, particularly highlighting his role in the 1986 peace negotiations between the Uganda National Rescue Front and the government.
“His act of reconciliation strengthened Uganda’s unity and sovereignty,” he noted.
According to the message from the UPDF 4 Infantry Division Commander, Gen. Moses Ali remains an important symbol of stability and national integration, having served in both military leadership and Parliament over several decades.
Col. Bainomugisha also referenced President Yoweri Museveni’s recent message on reconciliation delivered during the 27th National Prayer Breakfast at State House Entebbe.
“Forgiveness is not weakness; it is strength guided by faith. Forgiveness, not revenge, is the key to nation building,” President Museveni said.
He noted that the President’s remarks reflect Gen. Moses Ali’s longstanding commitment to peacebuilding and reconciliation in northern Uganda and across the country.
The UPDF further applauded Gen. Moses Ali for championing economic recovery, youth empowerment and infrastructure development in northern Uganda.
“Gen. Ali has consistently championed economic recovery, youth employment and infrastructure growth in northern Uganda, ensuring marginalised communities are not left behind,” Col. Bainomugisha said.
He added that Gen. Moses Ali’s contribution to security and stability helped Adjumani emerge as a peaceful region where citizens can rebuild their livelihoods and actively participate in national development.
During the function, Gabu Amacha, the political assistant to Gen. Moses Ali, read a speech on behalf of the veteran leader in which he reaffirmed his commitment to serving not only the people of Adjumani District but the entire West Nile region.
“Gen. Moses Ali remains committed to serving the people of not only Adjumani District but the entire West Nile region,” Amacha read from the speech. “Our focus now is to ensure that the people receive the services and development they deserve.”
In the speech, Gen. Moses Ali pledged to fast-track several major development projects in Adjumani District, including the long-awaited creation of Adjumani Municipality, the construction of Laropi Bridge and other critical infrastructure projects.
“We shall continue engaging the government to fast-track the creation of Adjumani Municipality, the construction of Laropi Bridge, and other key development projects that will transform the livelihoods of our people,” the speech stated.
The veteran politician also thanked the people of Adjumani for maintaining trust and confidence in his leadership over the years.
“I thank the people of Adjumani for standing with me throughout the years. Your support gives me strength to continue serving our nation with dedication and honesty,” the message added.
Concluding the message from Maj. Gen. Felix Busizoori, Col. Bainomugisha congratulated Gen. Moses Ali and all newly elected leaders in Adjumani upon their electoral victories.
