Archbishop Wokorach concluded the tributes by encouraging the retired general to remain committed to serving God and the country.
By Willy Chowoo
Gulu City
A number of leaders and public figures have paid tribute to Lieutenant General Charles Otema Awany (Rtd), describing him as a dedicated, generous and patriotic officer whose 47 years of service contributed to Uganda’s peace and security.
The tributes were delivered during a homecoming prayer and celebration held at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City on August 28, 2026, following Gen Otema’s retirement from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces.
Gen Otema joined the army on May 6, 1979 at the age of 16, serving in the Uganda Army/ Tanzania People’s Defence Force, during the Liberation war. He rose through the ranks from sergeant to lieutenant general before retiring on August 20, 2026.
The 1979 Liberation War, was fought between Uganda and Tanzania from October 1978 until June 1979 and led to the overthrow of Ugandan President Idi Amin.
The Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese, Raphael Wokorach P’Mony, described Gen Otema as generous, approachable and committed to helping others.
“Gen Otema Awany, we know you as a generous man. You have been open to help and to intervene where necessary. Many priests give testimonies of how you helped and supported them.”
Archbishop Wokorach said Gen Otema’s retirement should mark a transition to another phase of service rather than the end of his contribution to society.
“You are retired but not tired. This is just a shift. You are still able to serve.”
He urged the retired general to use the discipline and loyalty acquired during his military career to support the development of society.
“We know the army has high discipline and loyalty. We pray that you use this in civilian life. That will be your contribution to helping our society.”
Other leaders also praised Gen Otema’s service and called on him to continue serving the country and the people of Acholi.
Gulu City Mayor: Julius Labeja Acire
“You are retired, but not tired. We want you to use your experience in government to continue serving the nation and supporting the development of this place.”
Bardege-Layibi MP Martin Ojara Mapenduzi
Mapenduzi thanked God for protecting Gen Otema throughout his 47 years of service, saying his leadership had inspired many people, particularly during the period of internally displaced persons’ camps.
“We know it has been a long journey, but your leadership in the army has inspired many, especially during the time of the IDP camps.”
He recalled visiting Awer IDP camp in 2001, where he found that a displaced family had named a child Major Otema Awany.
“Your retirement is the beginning of a new chapter full of expectations.”
Omoro District Woman MP Catherine Lamwaka
“As we celebrate you today, this shows confidence, determination and hard work. We congratulate you upon your retirement.”
Kilak South MP Dr. Gilbert Olanya
Olanya said Gen Otema’s return home alive after retiring from active military service was a significant moment for the region.
“Since I was born, this is my first time to see a serving army officer retire and return home alive like you. This should be the beginning for all gallant sons and daughters in the army to return home while they are still alive.”
Omoro County: MP Andrew Ojok Oulanyah
Ojok said Gen Otema’s next challenge should be to help address poverty in northern Uganda.
“We know the guns have gone silent, but poverty is still biting hard. This is another war that you should join to lift our people out of poverty.”
Government Chief Whip and Lira City Woman MP: Dr Ruth Jane Aceng Ocero
“I want to thank you for 47 years of service to Uganda. We are very proud of you and very happy. We thank God for holding your hand and guiding you through 47 years of service.”
Former Foreign Affairs (International Affairs): Henry Okello Oryem.
Oryem described Gen Otema as generous and forgiving, recalling how he supported him during a difficult period in his life.
“In 1996, when Gen Tito Okello died, you supported me to travel and bury my father.”
He also praised Gen Otema’s contribution to the Juba peace talks, where he served as a technical and tactical military adviser to the government delegation.
“You were a technical and tactical military adviser to the government delegation on how to end the conflict in the north that helped to end the war.”
NRM Vice Chairperson for Northern Uganda: Denis Obua
Obua urged Gen Otema to formally join the National Resistance Movement, saying he had already contributed significantly to the party and the country.
“Now that you are free and you have been doing many things for the NRM, I know political parties may approach you to join them. I would like you to formally join the NRM.”
State Minister for Trade: General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi
General Mbadi commended Gen Otema for contributing to peace and security in Uganda, particularly in northern Uganda.
“You have served very well. You have contributed to peace and security in the country, especially here in northern Uganda. I want to welcome you to serve the country in another capacity.”
State Minister for ICT and National Guidance: Sunday Aloni Yorke Odria
Odria announced government support for an initiative aimed at skilling young people in Gulu City.
“The Ministry of ICT is aware of your initiative for skilling the youth in Gulu City. We are giving 30 laptops to kick-start the initiative.”
Chief Justice Emeritus: Alfonse Owiny-Dollo Chigamoi
Chief Justice Emeritus Owiny-Dollo said Gen Otema’s retirement should be viewed as an opportunity to take on a new role in rebuilding the Acholi sub-region.
“You have retired from the army, but the word ‘retire’ does not mean tiredness. Now it is time to join Rocco Paco and start rebuilding Acholi. Acholi’s demand on you is to join leadership in Rocco Paco—reviving Acholi.”
The leaders urged Gen Otema to use his experience, discipline and networks to support development, youth empowerment and the rebuilding of northern Uganda.
Archbishop Wokorach concluded the tributes by encouraging the retired general to remain committed to serving God and the country.
“Everything we do, let it be for God and my country.”
