President Museveni praises Otema as a peace advocate for Northern Uganda

Following four decades of dedicated military service, retired Lieutenant General Charles Otema Awany has concluded his active duty, with leaders in Northern Uganda now urging him to apply his extensive experience to the revitalisation and transformation of the Acholi community.

President Yoweri Museveni praised General Otema as a key figure in Uganda's liberation efforts and the re-establishment of peace in the country's northern region. He highlighted that Otema's 47 years in uniform were characterised by deep sacrifice, discipline, patriotism, and unwavering loyalty to the nation.

These comments were made by Museveni in a statement read on his behalf by Sam Engola, the Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, during a ceremony held on Friday at Kaunda Parade Grounds in Gulu City to commemorate General Otema's retirement.

Museveni stated that General Otema had been instrumental in advancing the cause of liberating people to achieve peace and socio-economic progress. The President noted that Otema had witnessed the various difficulties faced by the country over the years and had contributed significantly to the struggle in numerous ways.

The President mentioned that General Otema had embarked on the liberation struggle as a young man during a period of uncertainty for Uganda's future, subsequently serving through some of the most challenging times in the nation's history. He specifically commended Otema for his role in pacifying Northern Uganda and his efforts to mend relations between the military and civilians following years of conflict.

Museveni remarked that Otema diligently contributed to establishing lasting peace and pacification in Northern Uganda, as well as to the professionalisation and modernisation of the UPDF into a disciplined national and regional force. The President encouraged the retired general to continue acting as a representative for Northern Uganda in his new capacity as a respected elder, suggesting that his experience could still contribute to the nation's development.

Chief Justice Emeritus Alfonse Owiny-Dollo Chigamoi similarly informed General Otema that his departure from the armed forces should signify the commencement of a new phase of service to the Acholi community. Owiny-Dollo specifically invited General Otema to participate in Rocco Paco, an initiative designed to rebuild the Acholi community after decades of turmoil.

This initiative was launched in April 2024, with Owiny-Dollo and Uganda's UN Secretary-General candidate Olara Otunnu among its founders. Owiny-Dollo conveyed that the Acholi people require General Otema’s leadership within Rocco Paco, emphasising that his retirement was not a time for rest, but rather that his 47 years of preparation had equipped him for this new challenge. He explained that this new chapter involved the revival of the Acholi community, aiming to instill hope and convince their people of a future beyond current circumstances.

Acholi Paramount Chief David Onen Acana II expressed gratitude to President Museveni for entrusting General Otema with various high-ranking military responsibilities throughout the years, indicating that these appointments and promotions demonstrated confidence in his dedication and loyalty. General Otema, in his address, reflected on his involvement in restoring peace to Northern Uganda during the Lord’s Resistance Army insurgency, stating that he willingly accepted the assignment following President Museveni's directive.

He committed to ongoing collaboration with local leaders and the government to foster wealth creation and ultimately eliminate poverty within the Acholi sub-region. The retirement celebration featured a Holy Mass, presided over by Archbishop Raphael P’mony Wokorach of Gulu Archdiocese. Also present were Archbishop Emeritus John Baptist Odama, Bishop Sabino Odoki of Arua Diocese, government officials, military personnel, religious and traditional leaders, politicians, and members of the public.

General Otema enlisted in the army on May 6, 1979, and occupied numerous senior positions, including UPDF Overall Intelligence Coordinator, Commander of the Second and Fourth Divisions, Chief of Logistics and Engineering, and Commander of the UPDF Reserve Forces, a role he maintained until his retirement in August 2026.

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