Kampala – The Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, has paid glowing tribute to the late Rt. Hon. Gen. (Rtd) Moses Ali, describing him as an exceptional patriot, statesman, and peacebuilder whose legacy will continue to shape Uganda’s history for generations.
Babalanda made the remarks on Tuesday during a special sitting of Parliament convened to honour the former Second Deputy Prime Minister and longtime legislator, who died last Saturday.
Addressing the House, the minister said that while the country was mourning the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Ugandans should also celebrate a life devoted to national service.
“Gen. Moses Ali was an outstanding patriot, distinguished soldier, accomplished statesman, and dedicated public servant whose contribution to our country spanned more than five decades. Throughout his life, he remained steadfast in advancing the ideals of peace, unity, and national development,” she said.
Babalanda highlighted the late general’s long parliamentary career, noting that he represented the people of West Nile for more than two decades. He was first elected Member of Parliament for East Moyo County in 2001, re-elected in 2011, and later became MP for Adjumani West County in 2016, a position he held until his death.
She said his repeated electoral victories reflected the confidence voters had in his leadership and commitment to public service.
“Even at the remarkable age of 86, they once again entrusted him with the responsibility of representing them in this august House. That enduring support spoke volumes about the respect he commanded, his wisdom, and his unwavering commitment to public service,” Babalanda told Parliament.
The minister said Parliament would greatly miss Gen. Moses Ali’s vast institutional memory, wise counsel, and calm approach to leadership.
“As one of the longest serving and most senior Members of Parliament, he enriched our deliberations through his experience, humility, and measured leadership. His ability to build consensus earned him respect across the political divide and made him a mentor to many younger legislators,” she said.
Beyond his parliamentary service, Babalanda praised Gen. Moses Ali for his role in promoting peace and reconciliation, particularly in the West Nile region.
She recalled that at a critical moment in Uganda’s history, the former military commander abandoned armed rebellion and embraced dialogue by joining the National Resistance Movement led by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
According to the minister, that decision played a significant role in restoring stability in West Nile while strengthening national unity.
She noted that Gen. Moses Ali went on to serve the NRM government with distinction in several senior leadership positions, earning respect as one of Uganda’s most experienced public servants.
On behalf of the Office of the President, Babalanda conveyed condolences to President Yoweri Museveni, the First Family, the family of the late Gen. Moses Ali, the people of Adjumani District, and the wider West Nile region.
She described the late leader as a father, mentor, and unifying figure whose passing leaves a significant void in the country’s political leadership.
“As we bid farewell to this distinguished son of Uganda, let us honour his legacy by upholding the values he lived by, including patriotism, peace, unity, humility, courage, and selfless service to our nation,” she said.
She concluded by praying for the eternal repose of the late leader, fondly remembered by many as the “Cock of Adjumani.”
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