AMISOM Mourns Former Commander Maj Gen Paul Lokech

The African Union Mission in Somalia (Amisom) has expressed sadness at the passing of former commander Maj Gen Paul Lokech.

Maj Gen Lokech, Uganda’s deputy police chief, died August 21 morning at his home in Buwate, Kira Division in Wakiso District.

In a statement issued after the news of Lokech’s demise broke, Amisom said it was “deeply saddened” by the demise of the army officer.

Lokech was Amisom Sector One Commander of Uganda’s contingent to Somalia from May 2011 to 2012, and from December 2017 to December 2018.

“During his distinguished tours of duty, we all remember him as a man of character, great courage, integrity and honour,” read the Amisom statement in part.

“He was a brave and strategic fighter who was instrumental in commanding the counter-insurgency operations that drove Al-shabaab out of Mogadishu in October 2011.”

Amisom further described Lokech as “a towering icon in the fight against armed militants” who “leaves an enduring legacy that will never be forgotten.”

“We hold his family, the UPDF and the people of Uganda in our prayers, as we remember his incredible and valiant contributions to peace and security in Somalia,” continued Amisom in its mourning statement.

“Amisom will fondly remember Major General Lokech as an astute commander who selflessly supported the implementation of the mission’s mandate to degrade terrorists in Somalia.”