Uganda’s Veteran Statesman Gen Moses Ali Dies at 87 | Dawan Africa

Born on 5 April 1939 in Adjumani District, Ali first rose to national prominence after participating in the 1971 military coup that brought Idi Amin to power. During Amin’s administration, he served as Minister of Finance before later falling out with the regime and fleeing into exile.

He returned to Uganda’s political mainstream after President Museveni took power in 1986, following a peace agreement that integrated his Uganda National Rescue Front (UNRF) forces into the national army.

Ali later transitioned fully into politics, serving in Parliament from 2001 and holding several senior Cabinet posts, including Third Deputy Prime Minister, First Deputy Prime Minister and, most recently, Second Deputy Prime Minister until a Cabinet reshuffle earlier this year.

Despite losing his parliamentary seat in 2006, he made a political comeback in 2011 and remained an influential voice in government. Following Uganda’s 2026 General Election, he was elected MP for Adjumani West and was sworn into office in May.

His death comes just weeks after he stepped down from Cabinet, though he continued serving as a legislator.

Remembered for his longevity in public service and his influence in both Uganda’s military and civilian leadership, Gen Moses Ali leaves behind a legacy that spans some of the country’s most defining political transitions.