The late General Moses Ali once delivered a strong message to President Yoweri Museveni’s brother, General Salim Saleh, over concerns surrounding the welfare of his former soldiers and outstanding debts.
According to Gen Salim Saleh, Moses Ali warned him that failure to address the financial challenges affecting his soldiers would have serious consequences, even saying that he should not attend his burial if he passed away before the matter was resolved.
“General Saleh, if you don’t pay off my soldiers and their debts, if I die, don’t come to bury me,” Saleh quoted Gen Moses Ali as saying.
The statement revealed the deep concern that Gen Moses Ali had for the welfare of the men and women who had served under him during his long military and political career.
Gen Moses Ali, who served as one of Uganda’s most prominent military officers and politicians, was known for his long history in public service spanning several decades.
Throughout his career, he commanded soldiers during different periods of Uganda’s history and later became a senior government official, including serving as Deputy Prime Minister.
Those close to him described him as a leader who maintained strong relationships with the people who worked under him, especially soldiers who had served during difficult times.
The issue of soldiers’ welfare has often been a major concern within military circles, with former officers frequently raising questions about retirement benefits, payments and support for veterans.
For Gen Moses Ali, ensuring that his former soldiers were taken care of appeared to be a matter of personal responsibility and honour.
His message to Gen Saleh showed the importance he attached to fulfilling promises made to people who had sacrificed their lives in service.
Gen Salim Saleh, a long-serving military figure and influential adviser within Uganda’s security circles, has often been involved in matters concerning the welfare of veterans and former combatants.
The conversation between the two generals highlighted the bond and frank discussions that existed among senior military leaders who had shared years of service.
Gen Moses Ali’s words also reflected his determination to see justice and support extended to those who served under him before his final days.
Even after holding powerful positions in government, he remained connected to issues affecting ordinary soldiers and their families.
His supporters have often described him as a leader who valued loyalty and remembered those who stood with him during his military journey.
The late general’s career began many years ago, and he became one of the few Ugandan military officers who successfully transitioned from the battlefield into national politics.
Apart from his military service, Moses Ali played a major role in government, holding several ministerial positions and representing his people in Parliament.
His death marked the end of an era for a generation of Ugandan leaders who participated in the country’s political and military history.
The remarks he made to Gen Saleh have continued to attract attention because they show the personal concerns that senior leaders sometimes carry behind public positions.
For many observers, the statement was not only about money but also about recognition, loyalty and responsibility toward people who had sacrificed for their leaders.
Gen Moses Ali’s words remain a reminder of the challenges faced by many retired soldiers and the importance of addressing their welfare after years of service.
As Uganda continues to remember his contribution, the story of his conversation with Gen Salim Saleh remains one of the moments that reflected his strong personality and commitment to those who served alongside him.
