“I Pray For My Enemies And I Am Now Going To Become A Pastor On TikTok” Lt Gen Elwelu Speaks Out Ahead Of His Retirement

After nearly four decades of service, one of Uganda’s most recognized—and controversial—military figures, Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu, is hanging up his uniform. His retirement from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officially marks the end of a remarkable 39-year military journey that began in the tumultuous era of the National Resistance Army (NRA) in 1986.

On Friday, Lt. Gen. Elwelu, along with a group of other senior army officers, will meet with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, at State House Entebbe for a formal retirement ceremony. The occasion is not only a military formality but also a symbolic closing chapter in the career of a man whose name has evoked admiration, criticism, and debate in equal measure.

“I Thank God That I Am Alive and Retiring Peacefully”

In a deeply personal message addressed to the Ugandan people, Elwelu expressed heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity to serve his country through the ranks of the national military. His tone was reflective, emotional, and spiritual.

“I am grateful to have served the UPDF for 39 years since 1986, rising through the ranks to become a Lieutenant General,” he said.

The message went beyond just military milestones. Elwelu acknowledged the fragility of life and the toll that the military path has taken on many of his colleagues over the years.

“I thank God that I am alive and retiring peacefully. Some of my comrades died in battle, others were imprisoned or dismissed. It is by God’s grace,” he added solemnly.

With a tone suggestive of closure and forgiveness, the retired general extended an olive branch to those he may have clashed with over the years.

“I have forgiven anyone who wronged me because God asks His people to forgive,” he said, emphasizing the Christian principle of reconciliation.

Battlefield to Bible

Perhaps the most surprising development in Elwelu’s retirement announcement is not just his departure from active military duty, but what comes next. In a video clip widely shared online, the former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces (D/CDF) laid out his bold new mission: spreading the Word of God.

“After serving Uganda, I am now going back to my family. My next assignment is to serve God,” Elwelu said, adding a spiritual layer to his legacy.

In a unique twist that has sparked widespread curiosity, Elwelu revealed that he plans to use TikTok—the popular video-sharing platform often associated with younger audiences—as his pulpit. His goal? To preach and inspire the youth with the message of faith, redemption, and purpose.

This digital evangelism effort represents a dramatic shift from his life of combat strategy and national defense. The public’s reaction has been a mix of intrigue, skepticism, and support, with many wondering how the retired general will balance his controversial past with his newfound religious mission.

A Controversial Legacy

Despite his decorated service and high-ranking positions, Elwelu’s name is forever tied to one of the most contentious moments in Uganda’s recent history—the 2016 raid on the Kasese Palace. During this military operation, dozens of people, most of them royal guards affiliated with the Rwenzururu Kingdom, lost their lives as security forces stormed the palace of King Charles Wesley Mumbere.

The operation drew strong condemnation from human rights organizations both within Uganda and abroad. However, Elwelu remained unrepentant in his defense of the raid’s outcome.

“They deserved to die,” he stated at the time—a comment that further fueled public outrage and intensified his controversial image.

Still, this did not deter his rise through the ranks. Elwelu was promoted in the years that followed and became a key figure within President Museveni’s military establishment. He also served as a representative of the UPDF in Uganda’s Parliament, contributing to legislative discussions and defense matters, and participated in several regional peacekeeping missions, including in Somalia and the Central African Republic.

A Peaceful Exit

In a military environment often marked by sudden dismissals, political undercurrents, and behind-the-scenes power plays, Elwelu’s peaceful retirement is both notable and symbolic. His public expression of thanks and forgiveness, combined with his stated commitment to a **spiritual journey**, suggests a man seeking personal transformation and peace.

Observers say this transition could help soften the public perception of a man once feared for his battlefield decisions and hardline rhetoric. Whether or not Elwelu’s TikTok ministry will resonate with Ugandans—especially the younger generation—remains to be seen.

But one thing is certain: Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu is not simply walking away quietly. His next chapter may be unconventional, but it’s one he appears ready to embrace with conviction.