Major General Paul Lokech
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has paid tribute to the late Maj. Gen. Paul Lokech, recalling him as a fearless and highly skilled commander whose presence left a lasting mark on the country’s military leadership.
In a personal reflection shared on Wednesday, Muhoozi described Lokech as both a professional ally and a close acquaintance, highlighting moments they shared outside formal military duties.
“Today, I have been remembering my late brother Lokech,” Muhoozi said. “He was such a fearless, intelligent and unstoppable commander.”
He added that Lokech had a unique personality that often came through in informal settings, recalling their time together during social interactions.
“Whenever we had a drink of wine together,” he said, “he would forget my name was Muhoozi and start calling me Okello.”
Maj. Gen. Paul Lokech, who served as Deputy Inspector General of Police at the time of his death, passed away on 21 August 2021 at his home in Kitikifumba, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District.
His death shocked the country and the security establishment, where he was widely regarded as one of the most prominent military figures of his generation.
According to official findings released shortly after his death, a post-mortem examination confirmed that Lokech died from a blood clot.
Authorities stated that the clot formed in his right leg before travelling to the lungs, where it blocked pulmonary arteries and led to his sudden passing.
Police also reported that Lokech had suffered a fracture to his right ankle weeks before his death and had been receiving outpatient care as he recovered.
Throughout his career, Lokech built a reputation for commanding key operations within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, earning recognition for his role in various military campaigns.
His death triggered widespread tributes from across Uganda’s political and security leadership, with many describing him as a disciplined officer and a decisive battlefield commander.
Muhoozi’s latest remarks add to a series of public reflections on Lokech’s legacy, underscoring the personal relationships that existed among senior figures within Uganda’s security leadership.