Museveni gives sh30m to Kikosi Maalum veterans

By Patrick Okino & Bonney Odongo

President Yoweri Museveni has supported former members of Kikosi Maalum, a special group of ex-servicemen who participated in the fight that led to the overthrow of Idi Amin government.

Museveni gave sh30m to the group to boost their Savings and Credit Co-operative Society (SACCOS).

The money was delivered by the presidential adviser for special duties, Chris Rwakasisi and state minister for defence Gen. Jeje Odongo.

It was received by Col. (rtd) Tony Otoa on behalf of the 300 members during a function held at Margaritha Palace Hotel in Lira town on Friday.

Gen. Odongo also contributed sh10m.

Rwakasisi told the group that he was well associated with Kikosi Maalum from Tanzania, which inspired him to join the struggle to overthrow Amin in 1979.

Kikosi Maalum, which means special force, was formed by Ugandans exiled in Tanzania to fight Amin’s regime under the command of the late Maj. Gen. David Oyite Ojok, who was chief of staff during the Obote II period.

In addition to Kikosi Maalum, there was Front for National Salvation formed and commanded by Yoweri Museveni.

Other smaller groups included Save the Uganda Movement of Ateker Ejalu and Uganda Freedom Union.

“When I went to visit them in their training wing in Tanzania together with Milton Obote, we found a parade mounted, but the parade was by people under the camouflage of charcoal burners,” Rwakasisi said.

He added: “I loved Milton Obote and when I was in jail, there was nothing that dissolved that love. Obote also loved and trusted me, it is very unfortunate that he died before I could see him again.”

He said many people lost their lives during the struggle to liberate Uganda from Amin’s dictatorship and it is good Ugandans are now enjoying the fruits.

Odongo commended members of the Kikosi Maalum for working hard to free Uganda.

“Many of you think the world is big, but it is small. Kikosi Maalum played a crucial role in Uganda and we think we should thank them for their contribution.”

The group, headed by Lt. Col. Bosco Omure, demanded recognition from the Government through such things as medals, payment of their gratuity, pension and facilitating them to visit the burial sites of hundreds of comrades who lost their lives in Owiny Ki Bul, Lukung and near Lake Victoria.