By Karim Were
KAMPALA— President Yoweri Museveni on Tuesday joined mourners at Parliament to pay tribute to the late Rt. Hon. Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali, describing him as a patriotic leader whose contribution to Uganda’s history and national development will be remembered for generations.
The President laid a wreath on Gen. Ali’s coffin during a special parliamentary sitting held in honour of the veteran statesman, who passed away on July 18 at Nakasero Hospital.
In his tribute, Museveni hailed Gen. Ali for rejecting the brutality of the Idi Amin regime and for joining the struggle that ushered in peace and stability in Uganda.
“He made an important contribution to Uganda’s history. He rejected the brutality of Idi Amin’s regime, worked with us in the struggle for freedom, promoted peace and remained committed to the development of West Nile,” the President said.
Museveni noted that Gen. Ali understood the close relationship between peace and socio-economic transformation, saying the late leader consistently advocated for stability as a foundation for development.
The President called upon leaders in West Nile and across the country to honour Gen. Ali’s legacy by remaining committed to promoting peace, unity and economic empowerment.
“I therefore appeal to the leaders in West Nile and the whole country to continue working hard to raise household incomes and achieve prosperity,” he said.
Gen. Moses Ali, one of Uganda’s longest-serving public servants, held several senior government positions during his distinguished career, including First Deputy Prime Minister. He is widely credited for his role in promoting reconciliation, peacebuilding and development, particularly in the West Nile sub-region.
The special sitting of Parliament formed part of the official programme to honour the late statesman before members of the public paid their last respects at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.
