news 28 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Lt Gen Otema reflects on 47-year military career, offers apology
Retired Lieutenant General Charles Otema Awany has spoken about his extensive 47-year service in the Uganda People's Defence Force, acknowledging both successes and regrets, and has extended an apology to Ugandans for any wrongdoings during his tenure. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lt-gen-otema-recounts-47-years-in-the-army-apologises-to-ugandans-5573948
Lt Gen (Rtd) Charles Otema Awany, a decorated officer with 47 years of service, has described his military career as turbulent, a journey punctuated by both achievements and moments of regret. Speaking during a radio broadcast, Otema emphasized that the army’s core purpose should be discipline, respect, and the protection of citizens from oppression, rather than inflicting suffering.
“The gun you have carried, the uniform you have carried, is because of the strength of the people, not you alone,” Otema stated, addressing current army personnel. He urged soldiers to remember that their authority stems from the populace and that their duty is to defend the people, not to cause them harm.
Otema also extended an apology to the Acholi community and all Ugandans, admitting that errors may have occurred during his service. “If I did anything wrong as a person, I apologise. Whatever I did was not in my interest but for the public,” he stated. He clarified that any regrettable actions were a consequence of the nature of military work, particularly during operations to rescue abductees from rebel groups.
His comments came in response to lingering public concerns, specifically regarding the 2002 incident at Gulu Main Prison where inmate Peter Oloya alias Yumbe was shot and killed during a military raid that also saw 21 prisoners abducted. Otema defended the operation, explaining that intelligence suggested the LRA planned to attack the prison to free the inmates, potentially leading to greater loss of life. He argued that relocating the prisoners to the barracks was a measure to ensure public safety.
Reflecting on his decision to join the army in 1979, Otema cited bravery and the pain of witnessing Ugandans being killed. His career saw him serve in various significant roles, including commander of reserve forces and chief of logistics. Having officially retired on August 20, 2026, Lt Gen Otema now plans to focus on farming and has called for unity among the Acholi people, urging them to set aside political differences for development.
As part of his transition back to civilian life, Otema underwent a traditional cleansing ceremony, a ritual signifying his reintegration into the community. A homecoming event is also planned to honor his service.