President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Wednesday met with the family of the late Bazilio Olara-Okello, a significant figure in Uganda’s military history, at State House, Entebbe. The family was led by Rt. Hon. Dan Kidega, the former Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly.
Bazilio Olara-Okello (1929 – 9 January 1990) was a Ugandan military officer and one of the commanders of the Uganda National Liberation Army (UNLA), which, alongside the Tanzanian army, overthrew Idi Amin in 1979. During the meeting, President Museveni reflected on his past interactions with Olara-Okello and other key figures from that era, including Tito Okello, as he recounted his experiences in Tanzania in 1972 and the military operations that shaped Uganda’s future.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Olara-Okello’s family. Ms. Florence Apoko Olara, Olara-Okello’s daughter, expressed gratitude to the government and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their support during her father’s burial. She acknowledged the honor and assistance provided by the UPDF, which covered significant costs and ensured a dignified farewell.
“We thank you for the help you offered to our mother and the Acholi people when our father’s body was returned. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces received us with honor at the airport and provided a respectable burial,” Ms. Apoko noted.
Mrs. Beatrice Olara Ataro, the widow of the late Olara-Okello, also conveyed her appreciation for President Museveni’s continued support.
She remarked that the President’s commitment reflects his dedication to honoring Uganda’s history and those who contributed to its liberation. Mrs. Olara further extended an invitation to the President to visit their home next year as they plan to honor her late husband’s legacy.
In response, President Museveni pledged ongoing support to Olara-Okello’s family, ensuring their well-being and honoring the legacy of a man who played a pivotal role in Uganda’s liberation struggle.
Other family members in attendance included Mr. Ochen Olara, Mr. Mungu Olara, and Mrs. Beatrice Awony.
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