Former Minister of State for Works Musa Francis Ecweru has boldly responded to critics questioning his position following the arrest of retired Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu, insisting that public criticism will not force him to abandon what he believes is the right position. Ecweru said he would remain firm even if millions of people disagreed with him.

Speaking to journalists at Soroti Hotel on Tuesday, Ecweru addressed the growing debate surrounding Elwelu’s arrest and the security situation in the Teso sub-region. He defended the government’s approach, praising the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), other security agencies and local leaders for their efforts to maintain peace.

The former minister appeared particularly concerned about criticism directed at him on social media and through telephone calls. He said some people had resorted to insults, but insisted that such attacks would not intimidate him or change his position.

Quoting advice from his mother, Ecweru reminded his critics that verbal abuse cannot physically break a person’s bones. He then made his position even clearer, declaring: “I don’t care even if you are 10 million people on the wrong side and we are only two people on the right side, we shall remain standing on the truth.”

Ecweru maintained that his priority was protecting peace in Teso, a region that experienced years of insurgency, insecurity and displacement. He recalled the 1993 commitment to prevent the return of war and anarchy, saying residents should never again be forced to abandon their homes and seek refuge in internally displaced people’s camps.

He argued that political disagreements, disappointment and personal differences should not be allowed to create conditions that could threaten the security of ordinary citizens. According to him, Teso has suffered enough from past conflicts, and leaders should work together to prevent a repeat of those difficult experiences.

When asked to comment directly on the circumstances surrounding Elwelu’s arrest, Ecweru declined to provide details, saying the matter was now being handled by the relevant authorities. He also avoided revealing whether he had personally interacted with the retired general during the events leading to his arrest.

Beyond the security debate, Ecweru encouraged farmers to use the ongoing rains to prepare their gardens for the next planting season, warning about possible food shortages following poor crop performance in the previous season. He assured residents that the prevailing security situation would allow them to continue farming without fear of displacement, while reaffirming his support for President Yoweri Museveni’s government.