Lt-Gen. Paul Lokech

Background

Lieutenant General Paul Lokech, a distinguished Ugandan military officer, boasts a career spanning decades of service, marked by remarkable achievements and significant contributions to regional and international peacekeeping efforts. Born in Pader District, in the Acholi sub-region in the Northern Region of Uganda, circa 1966.

Military Background

Lokech's military career commenced when he enlisted in the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) as a young man. Displaying exceptional leadership qualities and a profound commitment to his duties, he quickly ascended through the ranks. His numerous notable contributions came through his participation in various peacekeeping missions.

In the early 2000s, Ugandan troops had been cut off deep inside the vast territory of the DR Congo. Gen. Lokech hatched a daring plan for their extrication, trekking more than 700kms across dangerous territory and safely delivered his men and equipment back to Uganda.

Lion of Mogadishu

When Gen. Lokech arrived in Somalia, he was briefed on Bakara Market as the most dangerous spot. He flew back to Uganda to present his operation plan. He planned to take over Mogadishu in nine months. Two months before the official launch, he attacked Bakara Market in a surprise night attack. UPDF maneuvered through the buildings until the whole of Mogadishu was freed.

When the radio message reached Museveni, he said: "I have never seen such a brave, intelligent, and disciplined soldier in all of my life. Lokech is a true Lion of Mogadishu."

Illness and Death

On 21 August 2021, Lt. Gen. Paul Lokech suffered a fatal pulmonary embolus and died at his home in Kitikifumba, Uganda. He was posthumously promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General.