Born on April 5, 1939, in Adjumani District, Gen. Ali’s military and political career spanned more than five decades, covering some of the most defining moments in Uganda’s post-independence history.
General (Rtd) Moses Ali, one of Uganda’s longest-serving military officers, politicians and statesmen, has died at the age of 87.
His death was announced on Saturday by Captain Mike Mukula, who said Gen. Ali passed away at 4:25 p.m. at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala, where he had been receiving treatment.
In a heartfelt tribute, Mukula described the late general as a distinguished patriot, freedom fighter and statesman whose contribution to Uganda’s peace, unity and reconstruction would remain permanently etched in the nation’s history.
“General Moses Ali devoted his life to the service of Uganda. His contribution to the struggle for peace, national unity, stability, and reconstruction will forever remain engraved in the history of our nation,” Mukula said.
He added that Gen. Ali would be remembered as a courageous soldier, astute leader and elder statesman whose wisdom, humility and commitment to national service inspired generations of Ugandans.
Born on April 5, 1939, in Adjumani District, Gen. Ali’s military and political career spanned more than five decades, covering some of the most defining moments in Uganda’s post-independence history.
A trained lawyer and military officer, he rose to prominence during the government of President Idi Amin, serving in several senior military and Cabinet positions, including Minister of Finance and Minister of Internal Affairs.
Following the fall of Amin’s government in 1979, Ali went into exile before returning to lead the Uganda National Rescue Front (UNRF), a rebel movement that operated mainly in the West Nile sub-region.
In 1986, he signed a peace agreement with President Yoweri Museveni’s government, leading to the integration of UNRF fighters into the National Resistance Army. The agreement is widely regarded as a major milestone in restoring peace and stability in the West Nile region.
After joining the National Resistance Movement government, Gen. Ali became one of northern Uganda’s most influential political leaders. Over the years, he served in several ministerial portfolios, including Tourism, Trade, Internal Affairs, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees.
He also represented East Moyo County in Parliament and was a member of the Constituent Assembly that drafted Uganda’s 1995 Constitution.
Although he lost his parliamentary seat in 2006, he returned to Parliament in 2011 and was appointed Third Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Leader of Government Business. In 2012, he was promoted to the rank of full General.
From 2016 to 2021, he served as First Deputy Prime Minister before becoming Second Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Leader of Government Business, positions he held until May 2026.
Popularly known as the “Lion of Adjumani,” Gen. Ali was credited with championing government development programmes, promoting national unity and supporting initiatives that improved livelihoods in Adjumani and across Uganda.
Although he was not reappointed to Cabinet in President Museveni’s May 2026 reshuffle, he had recently returned to Parliament after being sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Adjumani West County in the 12th Parliament. His exit from Cabinet marked the end of more than 50 years of active public service.
Mukula extended condolences to President Museveni, the government, Gen. Ali’s family, the people of Adjumani, the West Nile sub-region and the entire country.
“Uganda has lost one of her finest sons, but his enduring legacy will continue to inspire future generations to serve with integrity, selflessness, and unwavering love for country,” Mukula said.
He urged Ugandans to remember Gen. Ali not only for the senior offices he held but also for his lasting contribution to nation-building and the countless lives he touched throughout his decades of service.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, grant him His infinite mercy, admit him into Jannatul Firdaus, and grant strength, comfort, and peace to his family and to all who mourn him,” Mukula added.