Uganda’s Parliament has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali, honouring him as a distinguished patriot, freedom fighter and statesman whose decades of service helped shape the country’s political and security landscape.
During a special parliamentary sitting attended by President Yoweri Museveni, Members of Parliament from both the government and opposition reflected on the remarkable life of the former Second Deputy Prime Minister and Adjumani West County MP. Many described him as a calm, humble and dedicated leader who remained committed to serving Uganda throughout his life.
Legislators praised Gen. Moses Ali for his role in promoting peace and stability, particularly in the West Nile sub-region, where he worked tirelessly to foster reconciliation after years of conflict. They also credited him for championing development programmes that improved livelihoods, especially in northern Uganda, and for supporting government initiatives aimed at fighting poverty and empowering communities.
Several MPs spoke about his humility and willingness to mentor younger leaders. Mukono Municipality MP Betty Nambooze shared a personal story, recalling the first time she met Gen. Moses Ali while seeking his support during her bid for the position of Speaker of Parliament. Although she said he did not smile during their first encounter, she later came to appreciate his humility, kindness and unwavering commitment to public service, describing him as a leader whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
Beyond his political career, Gen. Moses Ali was remembered for his contribution to national unity and infrastructure development. His colleagues said he consistently advocated for better roads, improved public services and the social and economic transformation of the West Nile region.
As the nation continues to mourn, the government has confirmed that Gen. Moses Ali will be accorded a full state burial in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Uganda. Following the parliamentary tribute, his body was transported from Parliament to his home district of Adjumani, where thousands of mourners have gathered to pay their final respects.
The official burial programme will continue with public tributes and funeral prayers before his final send-off at his ancestral home in Adjumani on Thursday, July 23. The ceremony is expected to attract President Museveni, senior government officials, military leaders, Members of Parliament, religious leaders and members of the public.
The government has organised the funeral in collaboration with the family, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other state agencies to ensure the veteran leader receives the honours befitting his lifetime of service.
As Uganda prepares to lay Gen. Moses Ali to rest, Parliament agreed that his greatest legacy will not only be the offices he held, but also his dedication to peace, national unity and selfless service. His contribution to Uganda’s history, lawmakers said, will continue to be remembered for generations to come.
