Kasambya County MP Daudi Kabanda has cautioned leaders from the Teso sub-region against turning the reported arrest of retired Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu into a regional political dispute. Kabanda argued that Elwelu is not the first senior military officer to face arrest and questioned why his case should attract a different response from other communities.

In a statement responding to the growing debate surrounding Elwelu’s arrest, Kabanda pointed out that several other former military officers had previously been arrested without their respective communities treating the incidents as regional grievances. He named some former generals to support his argument, insisting that the matter should not be politicised along regional or ethnic lines.

Kabanda also accused some leaders of making statements that could inflame public emotions instead of allowing the relevant security institutions to handle the matter. He questioned whether those publicly protesting Elwelu’s arrest had information about the case that was not available to the general public, although he did not provide evidence to support the suggestion.

His remarks come at a time when Elwelu’s reported arrest has generated considerable concern in Teso, where the retired general has strong regional connections. The situation has attracted the attention of several political leaders, with some calling for calm while seeking explanations from government and security institutions.

Soroti City West MP and NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda Calvin Echodu has taken a different approach, saying the news of Elwelu’s arrest had caused anxiety among residents. He noted that reports of a possible security threat or insurgency in the region had further increased public concern, although no evidence confirming an insurgency was presented.

Echodu revealed that opinion leaders and political figures from Teso and other parts of eastern Uganda had contacted him seeking clarification about the developments. He said regional leaders had started consulting relevant government institutions to establish the facts and understand the nature of the allegations against the retired general.

The legislator added that the leaders had also communicated public concerns to President Yoweri Museveni. Citing Teso’s history of conflict and insecurity, Echodu said it was important to establish the actual situation rather than allow rumours and speculation to create unnecessary fear among residents.

While Kabanda wants Teso leaders to avoid presenting Elwelu’s case as a regional injustice, Echodu has called for a speedy and transparent inquiry. The two MPs have therefore offered contrasting responses to the same issue, with both positions highlighting the growing political debate over the retired general’s arrest and the need for clear information from the responsible authorities.