Today, the Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF) is saying goodbye to 11 retiring generals.
President Museveni, who is also the Commander in Chief of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, has given the green light for these retirements. Alongside the generals, 99 senior officers ranging from Major to Colonel are also retiring.
One notable name among the retiring generals is General Kale Kayihura, who used to be the Inspector General of Police. Just yesterday, he was cleared of all charges by the General Court Martial.
The prosecution had accused him of providing firearms to unauthorized individuals, specifically members of the Boda-boda 2010 group led by Abdullah Kitatta between 2010 and 2018. This group was alleged to have disrupted opposition rallies.
Furthermore, Kayihura faced accusations of aiding and abetting subordinate police officers in the illegal kidnapping and sending back of Rwandan exiles, refugees, and Ugandan citizens to Rwanda. He was also charged with failing to ensure the proper use and tracking of firearms and ammunition issued to specialized police units.
The decision to drop all charges against Kayihura came after calls for his pardon, including a plea from the NRM led by Abel Bizimana, the Kisoro District LCV Chairperson, during the 2021 presidential campaigns. In response, President Museveni expressed his intention to discuss forgiving Kayihura with UPDF prosecutors.
With all charges now withdrawn, General Kale Kayihura has regained his freedom and has been seen celebrating his exoneration with chants of freedom.
Yesterday, excitement swept through the streets of Kisoro district upon hearing the news of Kayihura’s acquittal by the General Court Martial in Kampala. Martin Hakizimana, the Kisoro district secretary for social services, confirmed that most people in Kisoro are now wearing smiles, relieved that Kayihura is finally free.
“We now have a reason to smile here in Kisoro because all charges against Gen Kayihura have been dropped by the court. We are so thankful to the Lord who has answered our prayers through Gen Yoweri Museveni as well as Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who played a role in securing Kayihura’s freedom,” said Hakizimana.
Abel Bizimana, the LC5 Chairman of Kisoro district, sees Kayihura’s acquittal as a victorious declaration of his innocence.
Here is the list of retiring officers
Gen Kale Kayihura
Lt Gen JN Lakara R
Maj Gen SM Wasswa
Maj Gen J Arocha p
Maj Gen DK Wakaalo
Brig Gen AK Kamanyire
Brig Gen S Oluka
Brig Gen FK Kyambadde
Brig Gen E Kwihangana
Brig Gen W Muhabuzi
Brig Gen HA Kaija M
Comments are closed.