Brigadier General Charles Oluka, Director General of Internal Security Organisation, Dies

The passing of Brigadier General Charles Oluka, Director General of Uganda’s Internal Security Organisation (ISO), has elicited an outpouring of condolences from various leaders and institutions.

Brig. Gen. Oluka, died on January 29, 2025, at Seguku Hospital located along the Kampala-Entebbe Highway, after he suddenly collapsed during a family prayer session.

The news of his demise was first confirmed by Faruk Kirunda, the Special Presidential Assistant in charge of press and mobilization, who stated:

“Sad news coming in of the sudden death of Brig Gen Charles Oluka. He died at Seguku Hospital where he was rushed this evening.” he said

Brig. Gen. Oluka had been battling heart complications prior to his sudden demise.

Following the news of his passing, numerous condolences have been expressed by government officials and the public. Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among stated, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Brig. Gen. Charles Oluka, the Director General of ISO. His dedication and service to our country were exemplary, and his commitment to ensuring a secure Uganda will always be remembered.”

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa also conveyed his sorrow, saying, “With sadness I’ve learnt of the death of Brig. Gen. Charles Oluka, Director General, Internal Security Organisation. Brig. Oluka was such a fine gentleman who enhanced teamwork and raised the profile of ISO.”

Brig. Gen. Oluka was appointed as the head of ISO in October 2020, succeeding Col. Kaka Bagyenda. In January 2024, he was promoted to the rank of brigadier general by President Yoweri Museveni. Throughout his tenure, he was instrumental in revitalizing Uganda’s internal security framework and played a pivotal role in various national security operations.

Under his command, the ISO played a key role in several high-profile security operations, including the apprehension of suspects involved in the deadly Masaka machete attacks between July and September 2021, which left nearly 30 people dead. He was frequently seen at joint security briefings, working closely with other security agencies to address major crime incidents.

Before ascending to the role of Director General, Oluka served as the Director of Technical Services at the ISO until 2018. His deputy, Taban Amin, is the son of former Ugandan president Idi Amin.

Oluka’s passing has left a significant gap in Uganda’s security apparatus, and his successor at the helm of the ISO has yet to be named.

Brig. Gen. Oluka is survived by his wife, Harriet Akisa, whom he married in 2023. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.