A group of youth loyal to former Prime Minister and 2016 presidential candidate Amama Mbabazi known as NRM Poor Youth has resumed political activities around the country, Chimp Corps understand..

The group who now call themselves National Youth Activists for Change on Monday morning told journalists in Kampala that as members of the ruling NRM party, they could not sit behind and watch  as things go ‘astray’ yet they can do something to save the situation.

“We are fundamentally and ideologically members of the ruling NRM party who are against the injustices and machinations in this nation,” said the group coordinator Vincent Kaggwa.

“We can’t sit as Makerere University has now been turned into a police barracks yet it is supposed to be a centre for academic excellence.”

They said they were not satisfied by the closure of the university on orders of President Museveni, stressing he had no powers to do so.

Museveni shut down the campus following weeks of unrest that threatened stability in the capital city .

Crane Bank

The group said it could not allow the sale of Crane Bank saying it is not right as this would ensure that the ‘ghost’ share holders would now be sharing the taxpayers’ money.

The group vowed to register members throughout the country as part of their activities meant to ensure they oust President Museveni.

According to the Youth Activists for Change, the way the economy is being run is not the best and that its their duty to ensure things move in the right direction.

“We are starting a campaign named ‘Kisanja Hakuna Mchuzi’ in a bid to cause change of government in Uganda.”

President Museveni at the start of this term launched what he termed as ‘Kisanja Hakuna Mchezo, a Kiswahili statement for serious work.

The group said this was a do-or-die campaign, adding they would not rest until they have achieved their goal of ousting President Museveni.

The group last year launched a series of activities including demonstrations in the city and storming of foreign missions  as some  of the ways they sought to express the discontentment with the ruling NRM government.

The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has Monday morning dispatched humanitarian relief to the most vulnerable groups of people living in the two districts of Kalungu and Kamuli.

Food items amounting to 200 bags of posho and 60 bags of beans will be delivered to the sick, widows, persons living with HIV and disabilities, child headed families and other special groups in each of the districts.

According to John Martin Owori -the Commissioner for Disaster Management in OPM, despite the drought that has hit several parts of the country, government will not distribute food to all Ugandans saying it is costly.

“We shall be distributing enough food to take these individuals as far as 20 days. Then we shall continue monitoring the situation and once they are still in dire need after the 20 days, we shall continue dispatching food,” Owori told journalists at the OPM Relief Warehouse in Kampala.

“We cant give food to everybody in need. If we were to provide food to every Ugandan, it would cost us Ugshs 34 billion on a daily basis. Government can’t afford to raise such money.”

He added; “We are targeting about 1,300,000 people who fall under the category of the most vulnerable who are incapacitated to fend for themselves following the drought.”

Priority has been given to districts that fall in the cattle corridor which received significantly less rains this year than normal. Government has so far provided relief in districts of Bukomansimbi, Soroti, Katakwi, Rakai and Isingiro.

Once distribution has been done in the cattle corridor area, government will move to Teeso and Karamoja sub regions which have equally been heavily affected by the drought.

A total of Ugsh 3.3 billion has so far been spent in food relief and the Department of Disaster Management has written to the Ministry of Finance requesting for an additional Ugshs 15 billion for the same cause.

Owori denied claims that government has been distributing meager amounts (as little as 1 kilogram) per household in the drought-affected districts.

He said investigations will be conducted to ascertain the facts.

Owori said that government’s focus is to encourage people to plant crops that withstand hard conditions like cow peas, potatoes and cassava to ensure self sustainability and food security at family level.

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has denied investigating Chief of Staff Land Forces, Brig Leopold Kyanda over a fake arms deal.
The army spokesperson Lt Col Paddy Ankunda said in a statement on Monday that “there is no case of alleged
fake arms deal being investigated by Col Mbonye or the Chieftaincy of
Military Intelligence, and that Brig Kyanda
is not currently under investigations of any sort by UPDF.”
However, the army did not speak out on last weekend’s arrest of conman Sam Simbwa and an army Captain only identified as Muhoozi who were allegedly involved in the arms deal.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Emilian Kayima confirmed the arrest of the duo.
Kayima said Simbwa and Muhoozi were being interrogated by detectives in regard to a case of “fraud” in the alleged “supply of government stores.”

Muhoozi is said to have been relocated to a detention facility at Mbuya.
A Polish firm recently accused Simbwa and army officers of defrauding it 520,000 Euros in a fake arms deal.
The money was deposited on an account in Equity Bank.
It’s understood the sensitive case compelled Museveni to commision a quiet investigation.
The accussations are that Kyanda compelled then Police Special Investigation Unit boss Mark Odong to release Simbwa the first time he was arrested.
But Kyanda, speaking through Ankunda, vehemently denied the charge.
The high ranking army officer says he does not even know how Simbwa looks like and has never dealt with him in any way.
Kyanda was a few years ago named in an illegal drug deal that partly cost him his position as military intelligence chief.
Lt Col Ankunda today said the reports were a “psychological
war launched by the enemies of the people of Uganda, targeting the top leadership of the UPDF with a view to breaking the trust the people have in their national force.”
He further pointed out that the UPDF has “travelled together with the People of Uganda in a long and difficult path to peace and stability that has ushered in development in the country,” adding, “Any persons who try to break this bond will be stopped using the strong arm of the law.”

Information and ICT Minister Frank Tumwebaze has described the nominated Electoral Commission team as a prospective “impartial umpire” as the country heads toward the 2021 general elections.

President Museveni on November 14 nominated the experienced prosecutor and Court of Appeal Judge Simon M. Byabakama to replace Eng Badru Kiggundu as the Electoral Commission boss.

The constitution of the EC leadership has always been a contentious and polarizing issue in Uganda.

The opposition and civil society have previously called for representation on the EC team, saying such would build trust in the commission’s work.

Led by Dr Kizza Besigye, the opposition last year stepped up its harsh rhetoric against Dr Badru Kiggundu, accusing him of being a political supporter of president Museveni.

Speaking to ChimpReports on Friday, Tumwebaze said the nominated EC leaders are a “well selected team.”

He added: “Those who all along were clamouring for a High Court Judge whose integrity was tested by the judicial service commission, there they have him in Justice Byabakama.”

Tumwebaze said Byabakama’s long service in public prosecution and being appointed a judge “speaks volumes about his competence and integrity.”

Other nominees whose names have been to Parliament for consideration and approval include Hajjati Aisha Lubega (deputy chairperson), Peter Emorut, Stephen Tashobya, Prof George Piwang and Mustapha Ssebaggala.

While the opposition is yet to make an official response to the nominations, the social media comments point to a possible outcry in the next few days.

Tumwebaze hailed the selection of Hon Tashobya, saying while in Parliament he “steered very well the Legal Affairs Committee and would always ensure that consensus is built in his committee despite the varying political beliefs of members.”

The Minister said Tashobya is “a consensus builder and a unifier”.

In regard to Lubega, Tumwebaze said the “long serving educationist will bring to the Commission many good years of experience in institutional management and administration.”

He added: “Our brothers and sisters of the Islam faith got well represented there. It’s a good team that I am sure will act as an impartial umpire. Let politicians stop using the EC as a scapegoat when they fail to win the hearts of the citizens.”

Kampala Mayor Erias Lukwago, Special Forces Commander, Maj Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, ICT Minister Frank Tumwebaze and FDC Secretary General Nandala Mafabi are potential future Presidents of Uganda, an online survey has revealed.

ChimpReports two weeks ago commenced an online poll, asking readers, “Beyond Museveni, Besigye and Mbabazi, who can make a better president?”

The question was exposed to 77,000 people on Facebook and 2,000 on Twitter. Several Ugandans sent in their choices on our WhatsApp number and email address.

With the 1986-ers gradually leaving the political stage, it became clear during the survey that Ugandans are eager for a youthful leader who appreciates the interests of the young generation.

Lukwago

Commenting on our Facebook page, Maionzer Ambrose, observed that Uganda needs “a result-oriented person, a bit young and has little or no connection with the current people who failed the country in the first place.”

He added: “We need a game changer.”

While several respondents argued that Lukwago had “presidential stamina” and that he is a “defender of the common man’s interests”, his opponents said his brand would be a hard sell.

“It’s hard to sell a Lukwago brand outside Buganda or Kampala,” said Dan Oumo Ateker; while Robert Katoto observed that the Mayor is a “warmonger with a lot of egoism. He is just a non-performer who can’t make any change in Kampala.”

Muhoozi

While Maj Gen Muhoozi maintains he is contented serving in the armed forces, several respondents said he had the potential to lead the country.

A one Eriya said Muhoozi is a “disciplined and quiet leader.”

Another respondent said Muhoozi “will be like Uhuru in Kenya. He will listen to the young people of the country because he is always with us…we love him, big up!”

James Wako observed that Muhoozi Kainerugaba “is the best person to become President in 2021 or 2026,” adding, “He is intelligent, very down-to-earth; the young people of this country can relate to him and you can be sure he will hand over power after two terms in office.”

Wako added that Muhoozi’s character is like that of “his famous uncle (Salim Saleh) who although fought more than all those other characters for the liberation of this country exhibits no ambition for power and is loved by the ordinary people!”

The respondent said “Muhoozi will prioritize the youth of this country unlike the current NRM bunch. They spend billions and billions of shillings on veterans and I don’t know what…meanwhile the youth get a pittance. We want a young, brilliant, dedicated leader (we are tired of the oldies) and that leader is Maj General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.”

Tumwebaze

Other respondents said Information and ICT Minister Frank Tumwebaze is an “orator” and “handsome” hence being a force to reckon with in the post-Museveni era.

“He has inspired many youth groups, listens to everyone and is a good mobiliser,” said Ben Wasswa.

But, said Wasswa, Tumwebaze defends government even when it’s in the wrong and spearheaded the ousting of Mayor Lukwago.

Another respondent said Tumwebaze is “the only one in NRM who can speak fluently and defeat political opponents in a debate.”

Gen Muntu

Boaz, a Ugandan living in United States told this website that FDC President Retired Maj Gen Mugisha Muntu would make a better president.

He said Muntu is “humble, composed, thoughtful, disciplined, professional, incorruptible and a terrific patriot.”

He added: “To be very honest to you, I am neither on the side of Museveni nor the current opposition leadership but on the side of the future of Uganda as a whole. I am neutral but unhappy with the trends of leadership under the Kampala administration.”

East Africa Legislative Assembly Speaker, Dan Kidega also strikes some Ugandans as a potential head of state. His fans say he is ‘level-headed.’

Some respondents backed former presidential candidate Abed Bwanika, saying he was the best candidate much as he “doesn’t know how to mobilize people.”

Byanyima

Other respondents said they would support Norbert Mao, Abdu Katuntu, Alan Sewanyana, Winnie Byanyima and Rebecca Kadaga.

For Byanyima, a respondent said she would make a good president because “she is very highly educated,” adding, “Secondly she is very aware of the politics of this country as she was directly involved in parliament and has continued to be involved indirectly through Kizza Besigye.”

The respondent said Byanyima “has exposure from abroad and as an insider looking in from outside, it gives her better perspective on how to govern. Finally, she has no bush war stories to narrate to us, so we shall finally be freed of the endless chest thumps from these excuses of liberators.”

John Michael, said Byanyima is a potential president due to her “impeccable record in the fight against corruption, backed with her professional experience both nationally and internationally in the diplomatic front. She could also be a bridge to reconcile the country which is increasingly being polarised on regional basis.”

On the other hand, supporters of Mafabi said they admired his “consistency, love for the nation, being incorruptible and is always there for the oppressed.”

John Michael further said “for Nathan Mafabi, he provides a by-the-book kind of leader, an economist who may run the country based on factual information rather than the speculation bias. Also for a regional change.”

Observations   

During the poll, we realised that the country has been hugely polarized by the uncompromising political ideology of the opposition and resistant attitude of the ruling party.

Michael for example suggested that Byanyima could “be a bridge to reconcile the country which is increasingly being polarised on regional basis.”

We further observed that sentiments of regional imbalance and exclusion could in future prepare ground for an ethnic conflict.

One of the respondents said “regional balance is needed in the long run to help other regions get finances to educate and impart skills for less privileged Ugandans,” adding, “Currently it seems all the top professional jobs especially in government are occupied by Ugandans from the greater western region.  This has to change to bring about regional balance.”

A respondent noted that Museveni has uniquely done some great job for Uganda “and we appreciate, but he has also had his failings as a person and as a leader. Nevertheless, he will never be there forever however much he desires. So, what happens to the country next after his departure?”

It was clear to us that while the country continues to grapple with a leadership crisis especially in low ranking positions; many distrust the current youthful leaders.

A supporter of Dr Kizza Besigye observed: “To be honest I don’t find people appealing to my taste. The sensation of the current political atmosphere, I can perceive it as rotten flavor in my mouth. I detest majority of my fellow youths in politics, they’re crooks – Double Dealers.”

The respondent said if Besigye would not appear on a ballot paper, he would vote for Erias Lukwago or Gerald Karuhanga for president.

Jim Baluku, a Senior Land Management Officer at Kasese District Local Government, said “Uganda needs more like the one NRA came with when it took power in 1986. You will notice that most of the NRA leaders were in their 30s and 40s, and Uganda needs that brand now.”

Baluku, now in his thirties, said he would make a good president.

Some respondents also pitched for Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda, saying he was                        “corrupt free, with long experience and neutral gentleman best for that post.”

The IGP Gen Kale Kayihura also featured as a potential candidate who would steer the country beyond.

“It is strategic to keep peace,” said one of Kayihura’s fans.

President Museveni has blamed the western invasion of Libya and Iraq for the global security crisis and defeat of eminent political figures – Hilary Clinton and David Cameron.

Clinton lost the recent U.S. presidential election to the politically inexperienced Donald Trump, shocking the world.

Cameron also lost a spirited campaign to defeat a radical wing seeking Britain’s exit from Europe. He chose to resign as Prime Minister of United Kingdom.

In his article released by the presidency on Wednesday night, Museveni said while there were other reasons that outsiders cannot easily know; there is one factor that has turned into a curse for the perpetrators.

“This is the factor of conducting wars of aggression against Sovereign States that are, moreover, members of the UN,” said Museveni.

“In the last 16 years, since the attack on the twin-towers, in New York in the year 2001, the USA and the other western countries have attacked Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya. Of these wars by the West against Independent and Sovereign States, two were clearly wars of aggression; they were unjust wars,” he added.

Museveni, who supported President George Bush’s war on terror, said it is only the war in Afghanistan that was a ‘just war’ “because some confused group, called Al-Qaeda, intoxicated with religious chauvinism, had carried out aggression against the USA. It was correct that the USA responded and dislodged the Talibans and their allies, Alqaeda, from Afghanistan. We all supported this.”

However, argued Museveni, it is the other attacks that were wrong and unjust.

“These were the attacks on Iraq and Libya. In the case of Iraq, it was said that they had weapons of mass destruction (nuclear, biological and chemical). In the end, those weapons were not there. In any case, who is supposed to have the weapons of mass destruction and who is supposed not to and why?” wondered Museveni.

“Why doesn’t the world concentrate on getting rid of those dangerous weapons rather than waging wars to maintain monopoly over those criminal and cowardly weapons? Why do some countries want to maintain monopoly over those criminal and cowardly weapons?”

In his book, Decision Points, President Bush regretted attacking Iraq basing on false intelligence that Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction.

Bush, however, said in the same memoir that Hussein was a sponsor of terrorism and had not only invaded Kuwait but also killed his own people using mustard gas.

On his part, Museveni said in the case of Libya, it was because Gaddaffi was about to launch a counter-attack to recapture the City of Benghazi in an internal civil war when he was bombed.

‘“It was to “protect” the “people” against the “regime” ─ the same imperialist arguments that were used in the last-but-one century (“spreading civilization”, etc). Cameron was about to add Syria to the list, when the UK Parliament rejected his efforts in 2013. In the end, these wars of aggression against Sovereign States, have generated human catastrophes that have few equals in the history of the world,’” argued Museveni.

ChimpReports understands that for a very long time, the Clintons have been a close ally of president Museveni.

The Clintons visited Museveni in Uganda in the early 1990s, cementing a friendship that would span decades.

The defeat of Clinton was hugely expected to hurt President Museveni, who will now have to take long to study Trump’s unpredictable foreign policy.

Be that as it may, said Museveni, the “promoters of attacks in the Middle East and North Africa, provoked a human exodus that has caused the backlash bringing down Mr. Cameron and Mrs. Clinton.”

He added: “Although immigration is not the only reason that brought down those groups, it is certainly one of them. The question then, is: “Were these deliberate imperialist designs or were they just mistakes?” The Western countries and Africa need to scrutinize this issue and come up with correct answers.”

A UPDF officer at the rank of Colonel is in the eye of a storm after being named in the botched 12m Euro arms deal.

Highly placed sources told ChimpReports on Thursday morning that Colonel Jeff Mukasa Cupa could be arrested to help in investigations.

“He is facing arrest,” said a source.

UPDF spokesperson Lt Col Paddy Ankunda recently made a u-turn and admitted that the army was indeed investigating a case where fraudsters reportedly conniving with some officers conned billions of shillings from a Polish arms dealer.

He also confirmed the arrest of city conman Sam Simbwa and Capt Muhoozi, an aide of Gen Salim Saleh in relation to the fake arms deal saga.

This website has now exclusively learned that upon interrogation of suspects, Col Mukasa was accused of clearing the way for the meeting of conmen and Polish arms contractors at Bombo Military Headquarters.

Col Mukasa is in charge of security at the tightly-guarded Bombo military facility.

It is said on orders of Chief of Staff Land Forces Brgadier Leopold Kyanda, Col Mukasa allowed Simbwa and Polish military hardware dealers to convene a meeting in the boardroom of the military headquarters.

In the boardroom, Simbwa and some officers told Polish dealers they wanted artillery pieces; surveillance vehicles and armour yet this was not the case.

Upon return to Poland, the businessmen were told to send money amounting to 520,000 Euros (Shs 2bn) to prepare paper work for the arms deal.

Upon receiving the money, Simbwa and his colleagues switched off their phones.

Feeling shortchanged, the Polish dealers chose to report the matter to police for investigation.

Col Ankunda was not readily available for comment.

Brigadier Kyanda has since vehemently denied knowing or dealing with Simbwa in any defence matter.

He also denies ordering police Special Investigations Unit boss Mark Odong to release the conman from detention.

Heavy gunfire has Thursday night rocked the mountainous areas of Rwenzori as elite military units engaged suspected armed militants in combat action, leaving several people dead.
It’s reported that eight people have been confirmed dead though the death toll could be higher.
Government officials were not readily available for comment.
However, authorities said a combined force of UPDF and Uganda Police Force launched assaults in Kamabale A and Karangura in Kabarole District to dislodge gangs terrorising people living in the mountains.
Rwenzori sub region police spokesperson Lydia Tumushabe confirmed the operation which she said was meant to restore sanity in the volatile region.
“Some gangs have been laying ambushes in the villages and stealing property hence causing insecurity,” she told reporters.
She added that bases hitherto in the hands of militants have been run over by security forces.
The Rwenzori region remains a thorn in the flesh of Uganda’s armed forces.
Several radical Rwenzururu fighters last year attacked a military barracks before being felled by machine guns.
A threat of a growing insurgency recently terrified Museveni.
He would later tour the region seen as a stronghold of the political opposition.

The fighting shook hearts as residents fled their residence for safety.

“In the afternoon, I realised people were running away from the mountain to the town as gun shots were being heard from where they were coming from,”Nyakatonzi sub county councillor Ham Natuhwera told this website.

He added: “Kirumira Mutima fighters used weapons like pangas, axe , arrows amd locally made bombs to fight soldiers.”
Kasese politicians have since accused government of exclusion, a charge officials vehemently deny.
A specialised force is being trained by French military instructors in mountain warfare in Rwenzori.
Residents reported seeing military choppers hovering in areas where military forces were conducting the surprise operation.

Heavily-armed elite units of Uganda’s armed forces have been heavily deployed in Kasese District following clashes with armed militants in Rwenzori region on Thursday night.

The UPDF overran several bases of a militia group linked to the radical Rwenzururu Kingdom.

At least 12 people died in the clashes though locals say the number could be much higher.

Since then, the UPDF have been increasing deployments in the area to thwart attempts of a possible breakout of violence.

Chimp Corps say the army and police were today deployed around the Rwenzururu palace, sparking tension in Kasese town.

Some youth were also seen engaging soldiers in deadly street battles that have pushed the town to the edge.

The fighting has since created uncertainty in the town with many choosing to stay indoors.

Shopkeepers closed shop to protect their property and life.

For a long time, President Museveni has always suspected Rwenzururu leader Wesley Mumbere of quietly mobilising for a rebel movement to facilitate the creation of a secessionist Yiira Republic.

In March this year, Museveni resident Yoweri Museveni warned against the scheme of creating a Yiira Republic involving the Bakonjo of Congo and those from Uganda.

However, Museveni told a delegation of minority groups in Rwenzori that if a Yiira Republic were ever to be created, it would never ever involve even a single inch of Uganda.

“The people who fought for the freedom of Uganda would never allow that to happen. Anybody involved in that dangerous dream will see his efforts come to no avail,” he said at a meeting held at State House in Entebbe.

The Rwenzururu leaders accuse the government of marginalization, a charge officials describe as baseless.

Ugandan troops serving under the African Union Mission in Somalia will be paid in Euros effective January 2017 and the ten-month arrears for the soldiers have been transferred to Bank of Uganda.

This was revealed Friday by Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala.

“We have received Information that African Union has transferred to Bank of Uganda over US $ 4.9million, being arrears payment for our troops serving in Somalia to cover the period of January to September 2016,” said Gen Wamala.

He further pointed out that the European Union that pays the allowances of the troops has resolved to pay in Euros effective January 2017.

The General was speaking Friday at the UPDF’s Peace Support Operation Training Center in Nakaseke District during the flagging off ceremony of 2,745 troops under Uganda Battle Group 20 (UGABAG XX).

The new contingent will early next week deploy to Somalia to replace UGABAG 17 that has completed its one year tour of duty in Somalia.

The new development is a sigh of relief for soldiers who have previously complained of non-payment of their arrears while serving in the dangerous country.

Gen Wamala said the delays in the payment were beyond the Uganda Government control.

“There were delays because we got into serious discussions with the EU when they resolved to reduce the monthly allowances of the troops from US $ 1,028 to US $ 828. They then later resolved to pay in Euros which caused other discussions and signing of fresh Memorandum of understanding,” he said.

The General refuted recent media reports claiming UPDF troops were planning to mutiny over the delayed AMISOM allowances.

“UPDF is not a mercenary force. We did not go to Somalia for money but rather a just pan African cause. The issue of allowances came later as a by-the-way. We have served in Central Africa and South Sudan without any pay and so the force can never mutiny over allowances or anything else. UPDF is a professional force,” he explained.

He further explained that under the new pay arrangement, the troops in Somalia will receive an equivalent of the US $ 828 but in Euros.

Because Parliament resolved that UPDF will deploy to Somalia on Zero Funding from Uganda, the government will deduct an equivalent of US $100 (EUR 92) for administrative costs like transporting the troops for compassionate leave and acquiring extra uniforms.

“This means every soldier will now receive a monthly take home of EUR 646 as allowances for serving under AMISOM,” Gen Wamala said.

Saving

He gave the troops a lengthy financial literacy teaching stressing the importance of saving for the future, especially for retirement.

He advised them against leaving their ATM cards with relatives saying such would be a fertile ground for family feud.

Gen Wamala warned the troops that despite the security improvements in Somalia, the mission is still a “dose and die mission” and that they need to remain alert all the time.

The CDF revealed that amongst the three battalions under UGABAG 20, two battalions, 7Bn and 69Bn, had earlier served in Somalia.

He said he expects they will perform better due to the experience they already had in the Somalia operations.

He further revealed that the troops will be going with a new Contingent Commander, Brig Kayanja Muhanga, who is replacing Brig Sam Okiding upon the completion of his one year tour of duty in the mission.

Brig Kayanja has been the 4th Division Commander and also commanded the force that responded to the South Sudan crisis in 2013.

Recently, he commanded the force that rescued Ugandans trapped in South Sudan. Previously, Kayanja served as the Commander of UGABAG 8 that participated in defeating Al shabaab in Mogadishu city and later captured Afgoye in lower shabelle.

Kasese

Sometime late this year, former Defence Minister Crispus Kiyonga travelled to Kasese on a special mission.

Local authorities had tipped President Museveni that the Rwenzururu Kingdom was raising a fighting force of about 2,000 militants.

The fighters were trained in using firearms, explosives and close combat action.

The training camps were skillfully hidden in the mountains overlooking Kasese Town.

The President was told that the militia’s main objective was to fight for the creation of Yiira Republic.

The Rwenzururu Kingdom, comprising the Bakonzo/Banande, Bamba and Basumba who occupy the three western districts of Kasese, Kabarole and Bundibugyo would unite with their tribesmates across Democratic Republic of Congo to form Yiira State.

Both Bakonzo and Banande belong to the Bayira community – a Bantu speaking people.

Those in Congo are located in the volatile North Kivu province with Butembo and Beni as their main towns.

According to researcher Edwin Mumbere Bayanda of Bayanda Agape Foundation, the Bakonzo claim to have been the first people to settle on Rwenzururu Mountains and believe to have been created by God just as Adam and Eve in Eden.

When word went around that preparations for a rebellion to create Yiira State were in the final stages, Kiyonga quickly mobilised security officials and called Rwenzururu Kingdom’s top shots for a meeting.

“Kiyonga and other security officials told representatives of King Mumbere to demobilize their fighting force and destroy the training camps,” said a local councillor who spoke to ChimpReports on condition of anonymity so as to speak freely.

“They (kingdom) were told to do away with the camps since people in the area were feeling insecure. However, the ‘Eshamango’ (literally translated as protectors of the kingdom) stood their ground saying whoever was not comfortable with them should attack them,” the source added.

The Ugandan government envoys left crestfallen.

Probe

A deeper investigation ensued, obtaining key intelligence information about the works of Rwenzururu militants.

The President was informed that Uganda’s opposition leader, Dr Besigye, was sponsoring King Mumbere’s activities.

Museveni was further told that Besigye had bought a new car for Mumbere. It was reported that a powerful FDC official was equally in touch with Mumbere’s wife.

Some of the improvised weapons found in the mountains

The training and stockpiling of arms in the mountains continued throughout October and November.

Fearing Rwenzururu Kingdom would announce the formation of Yiira State hence kicking of a full blown rebellion, Museveni ordered military and police commanders to act.

The President also was concerned that a rebellion in the FDC stronghold of Kasese would embolden other areas to commence acts of resistance in the country.

As tension escalated over the militarist posturing of Rwenzururu Kingdom, two cops were slaughtered in Kasese Town by suspected Rwenzururu combatants.

“The attackers returned to Mumbere’s palace. No one came out to condemn it. Instead, Mumbere increased intelligence in town to tap on what people were saying,” said a high ranking source in Rwenzururu Kingdom.

The killing of the cops heightened anxiety in Kasese.

Civilians and Royal Guards openly referred to themselves as Majors or Captains. They introduced themselves as such in anticipation of war.

Mumbere has today been arrested and is expected to meet with President Museveni tonight

Attack

The military and police decided to take a preemptive action against Rwenzururu militants – first by raiding the training camps.

Several Royal Guards were killed in the mountains on Thursday.

“It was discovered they had knives, pangas, swords, axes, spears and locally made bombs to be used in the planned war,” said a local Councilor.

He said the locally made bombs comprised bottles filled with petrol and nails as ingredients.

On Friday night, the UPDF and police deployed heavily – surrounding Omusinga’s palace.

By Saturday morning, the security forces had withdrawn from the Palace.

They however redeployed at the King’s palace at around 10:00am. The police were reinforced with military personnel and armored fighting vehicles.

With their fingers on the trigger, security forces kept an eye on Mumbere’s guards.

As hugely expected, a Royal Guard opened fire at the police, commencing a deadly battle with security forces.

In a space of two hours, the exchange of gunfire left eight Royal Guards dead.

Upon learning about the death of their colleagues, the Royal Guards quickly mobilized and attacked isolated police stations in different sub-counties.

In Maliba sub-county, the guards killed two police officers. In Kisinga, three police officers were shot dead, bringing the number of the killed cops to five.

In Ibanda, Bugoye sub-county, when the Royal Guards attacked the sub-county police, four guards were killed.

This was confirmed by the Police spokesperson for Rwenzori East, Mansulu Ssewedi.

He said the police and UPDF remain heavily deployed to contain the situation.

Warning Besigye

Informed sources say Besigye could be asked to explain his alleged links to Rwenzururu.

President Museveni early this year told leaders of Rwenzori region he would not allow any secessionist plans in Uganda.

“I want to state categorically, that Uganda will not lose even a piece of her land to the creation of the so-called Yiira republic and whoever wants that republic should create it outside Uganda’s territory,” warned Museveni in a meeting attended by Kasese lawmaker, Winnie Kiiza.

“Even Besigye who promised it, if he became President and made that mistake, he would not sleep in State House that day,” he added.

“This country has some people who fought for it to be what it is and no one should even dream about taking part of its territory to form a new republic.”

Besigye has previously denied supporting the creation of Yiira Republic.

Responding to President Museveni’s remarks, Besigye vehemently denied ever harboring such an idea.

He said in a tweet, “Something is seriously wrong with Mr Museveni! I’ve never, neither anyone I know, has promised Yiira Republic.”

By Sunday, at least 41 Royal Guards and 14 security officers were confirmed dead – bringing the death toll in the Rwenzori clashes to 55.

Conflict resolution

According to lawyer Edgar Tabaro, government needs to address production.

“Create industry to pull people away from the land. Land pressures plus fusion of veterans with cultural issues yet cultural institution can’t guarantee livelihoods. Then politicians seeking to snatch at a bargain fuelling all this,” said Tabaro.

Asked if he were surprised by the fighting, Tabaro, who has agricultural projects in Kabarole District, observed: “It has been brewing. From low intensity to medium to full blown. If you follow local radio stations it has been on for a while.”

The Bakonzo were historically considered as part of the greater and resilient Tooro Kingdom.

The current Rwenzururu King Wesley Mumbere’s father Isaiah Mukirane was actually an official in the Omukama of Tooro’s court.

Together with Kawamara, the father of the new cultural leader of the Bamba and Petero Mupalya who died recently, started the Rwenzururu Movement in 1962 against perceived mistreatment of the Bakonzo by the Batooro.

It will be recalled that Tooro was at the time being backed by the power of the central state.

The Bakonzo said at the time that Batooro were holding all the key governmental posts and senior chieftainships, herein neglecting all involvement from the Bakonzo in the political system.

The Bakonzo and Baamba believed they were treated as second-class citizens, who were neglected in educational and economic opportunities and were referred to in derogatory terms as ‘unclean’.

Upon storming out of the Tooro Parliament also known as Rukurato, Mukirane and Mupalya were eventually detained at Luzira prison.

On release, Mukirane went to Rwenzori Mountains from where, with the blessing of a few chiefs, declared himself King of Rwenzururu.

Mukirane’s rebellion became known as the ‘Rwenzururu’ rebellion.

Since he was illiterate he couldn’t frame objectives for his rebellion that addressed social and economic conditions of the Bakonzo.

Further still he could not conceive of larger national political objectives such as joining other anti-Obote and anti-Amin forces to liberate the entire country.

Many believe he was bigoted like any other peasant and that he thought the greatest thing in the world was to become another ‘King’ like the Omukama of Tooro.

Due to Mukirane’s peasant world view, he never did much to provide education to his son     Mumbere.

Mukirane, eventually, died in Rwenzori Mountains and left his young son Mumbere.

Mumbere became ‘Omusinga’ at the age of 13 in 1966.

The rise of Omusinga

The Rwenzururus were able to survive for a long time because essentially Uganda did not have an army.

At Independence in 1962, Uganda only had 1 battalion (about 700 men) to guard the entire country.

So it was easy for someone to start a rebellion and remain untouched for years because the means to confront these challenges to the state simply did not exist.

Unlike other enlightened forces, Mukirane left behind a few ill disciplined, superstitious militants who kept on terrorising the very Bakonzo he was supposed fight for.

At the age of 13, Mumbere lived with this rag-tag militia in the Rwenzori Mountains.

Compared to sophisticated and organized groups including Buganda and Tooro, the Rwenzururus were essentially bandits – imposing heavy taxes on the Bakonzo, raping women, robbing and killing them.

Mumbere stayed in the mountains with his Rwenzururus until 1984 when the master of political games Dr Milton Obote bribed him to get out of the mountains with a promise of education in the United States.

Earlier, President Obote had failed to win the heart of Mumbere before being overthrow by Idi Amin.

Even Amin struggled to maintain peace in Rwenzori. All he did was respond to moderates’ requests by granting the Baamba and Bakonzo a separate district each. The Semliki (now Bundibugyo) and Rwenzori (now Kasese) districts were given to the Bamba and Bakonjo respectively.

When Obote returned to power in 1980, he decided to lure Mumbere from the mountains.

He convinced Mumbere to resign as ‘king’, in return for promises of development funds for social welfare and education; as well as material incentives including a bus, a car, a pickup truck, two shops, a residential house, and a government scholarship for study abroad, which was to materialize in the US.

But Obote being Obote breaks the promise he made to fund Mumbere’s education in the U.S. as soon as the 30-year old Mumbere gets there.

So Mumbere was forced to seek political asylum in the U.S. and start working as a nurse’s assistant in an old people’s home in Pennsylvania U.S.

That is what he was doing for 25 years in the U.S. until this government called him back and rehabilitated him. That was in 2009.

Meeting Museveni

Museveni recounted meeting Mumbere:

“When Mr. Mumbere came to see me, he wanted to be the King of the Rwenzururu.  I told him that the Rwenzururu had been a Political Movement for equality.  Why did he want to turn a political resistance movement into a monarchy?” wondered Museveni in a recent article.

“His group, however, kept on insisting on the issue of monarchy although there was a big group in Kasese that also opposed the idea.   Eventually, in order to create harmony, we withdrew objections to Mr. Mumbere becoming Omusinga especially after people like Dr. Kiyonga and a large group of people, who were opposed to the idea of monarchy, withdrew their objection.”

However, the Bamba leaders of Bundibugyo were totally opposed to the idea of the monarchy.

In agreeing to Mr Mumbere being Omusinga, government agreed that that cultural institution should operate in Kasese.

Those of Bundibugyo and other areas that were interested in the Obusinga could go to Kasese.

Museveni said even within Kasese, there are other indigenous groups that did not support these ideas.

“These are the Basongora, Banyabindi and Bagabo.  We encouraged HH Omusinga to have dialogue with these groups.  I do not know how far that dialogue has gone.  I have, however, been hearing of some chauvinistic positions from some of those who claim to be supporting Obusinga.  They seem to insist that the Omusinga, apart from the Omukama of Tooro in his area, should be the only cultural leader in the Rwenzori region.  Yet, there are other ethnic groups in the Rwenzori region: Bamba, Basongora, Banyabindi, etc.  They have different ideas about this issue and have, in several meetings with me, made this categorically clear.”

However, such agitation for the recognition of Rwenzururu was curtailed by persistent allegations of Mumbere’s and his Rwenzururians’ involvement in rebellions fighting the Museveni government – NALU (1989-1993) and ADF from 1996.

In August 1998, operating on Congo-side, the UPDF overran an ADF encampment and captured documents associating Charles with the rebellion.

The Rwenzururu

According to Arthur Syahuka-Muhindo, the author of Movement and the Struggle for the Rwenzururu Kingdom in Uganda, the documents comprised letters indicating Charles Mumbere’s acceptance of titular leadership of NALU following the assassination of Amon Bazira in Kenya in 1993

For a long time, government lived with the reality of the Rwenzururus being rebels.

“It would be like calling back Kony from Central African Republic and then making him ‘king’ of the LRA in Acholi. It’s the same thing. That’s why people like Crispus Kiyonga were so opposed to the whole idea when it was being proposed in the years leading up to 2009. It turns out he was right,” recalled a source in government.

The 2014 attacks on military facilities by ‘Kirumira Mutima’ militia confirmed this widely held perception about the Rwenzururu.

Role of opposition

The 2016 presidential elections gave the Rwenzori crisis a new twist.

Mumbere openly campaigned for the opposition FDC, a move that unsettled President Museveni.

The King, who is constitutionally barred from engaging in partisan politics, maintained his call for a “peaceful transition of power” and “fundamental change of the political system.”

This message was reechoed by Mumbere’s close associates throughout the campaign – leading to a shocking defeat of NRM in Kasese District. Most elective positions were taken by FDC.

Sources in government say they have been investigating FDC’s role in the conflict.

“Having failed to make much headway with the LRA in 2003 through James Opoka after Kony butchered all the ‘cadres’ that Besigye had sent him; they tried to launch a rebel group in DRC called PRA but the late Mayombo thoroughly infiltrated and then dismantled this group,” said a source.

FDC deny allegations of using arms to fight the government. They insist power will be taken without resorting to war.

But government takes this argument with a pinch of salt.

“Now the plan by Besigye, Mugisha Muntu and Ingrid Turinawe was to use Mumbere and the Rwenzururus to create an NRM free zone (a ‘liberated zone’ in their terminology) first politically and then militarily in Kasese,” said a senior state official.

“Using the institution of the ‘Omusinga’ people were threatened, bullied, beaten even killed to vote only FDC in Kasese and Bundibugyo. The people doing all this threatening, bullying, beating and killing were Mumbere’s illegal militia sometimes called ‘Kirumira Mutima’ or ‘Esyamango’ or ‘Royal Guards’,” said an official who preferred anonymity to speak freely.

The MPs led by Opposition Whip, Ssemujju Ibrahim Nganda yesterday said the crisis was due to the actions of the State.

“The government should account for all the deaths that occurred on both sides of the conflict and the civilians. We are seeing different figures being mentioned by different media houses and other bodies floating on the lakes. All should be established and accounted for,” Ssemujju said during a press briefing at Parliament on Monday.

“Postmortem should be carried out on each and every single body to determine what kind of weapons were used.”

Officials said FDC MPs’ swift reaction to defend the Rwenzururu underscores the strong ties between the political group and the cultural institution.

ICT Minister Frank Tumwebaze said “Some opposition leaders are willing to take advantage of this rebellion,” adding, “we have seen some already and we shall not allow them.”

Defence officials said Mumbere and his adherents will not be allowed to wreak havoc in Rwenzori.

“It doesn’t matter what they are called, they are all an illegal militia that answers to Mumbere and have been causing all this chaos. These are the characters that have killed soldiers, police and civilians. These are the people UPDF fought the other day at the palace.”

Mumbere is detained at the police’s special operations base at Nalufenya, Jinja where he awaits prosecution on charges related to terrorism, murder and treason.

Elite units of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) are searching for the body of Rwenzururu’s female commander killed in combat last week.

The fighter (name withheld on request) was captured on aerial surveillance deploying fighters around Kamabare camp in Kabarole District before being taken out of action.

“She was felled by sniper fire,” said Maj Fred Kitatamuyima, the UPDF operations commander in the area.

“That fighter was wearing a red outfit. After spotting her, we fired and she fell. As soon as her combatants realised that she had been killed, they quickly cut off her head before using an exit route at the training camp to an unknown destination,” said the commander.

Government officials accuse the Rwenzururu Kingdom led by King Wesley Mumbere of recruiting and training fighters to destabilize Rwenzori region.

Mumbere was recently arrested and charged with murder of a police officer at Kidodo Police Station. He is currently in detention in Jinja.

It is understood the killer gun was found at Mumbere’s palace.

The UPDF would later raid training camps of the Rwenzururu militia especially in Kamabare, killing several fighters.

“At first we wanted to use heavy gunfire to deal with these criminals. But we realised some innocent people would die in the crossfire. So we sent in specialized teams to carry out specific targets on the fighters’ bases,” said Maj Kitatamuyima.

He said during the operation, soldiers confronted about three ambushes laid by the Rwenzururu Militants.

“We crushed them before taking over their main camp at Kamabare,” he added.

Asked whether the militants were thoroughly defeated, the commander responded: “Several fighters escaped to the Mountains. We suspect some of them crossed into DRC.”

The Rwenzururu Kingdom has repeatedly denied its involvement in the recruiting fighters, saying it doesn’t condone violence.

However, Police say 16 security officers have been killed by the Mumbere’s Royal Guards and Kirumira Mutima militia.

By Friday this week, the military had scaled down its operations in the Mountains.

Officials announced a 7-day ceasefire to allow suspected militants to surrender to Kasese RDC’s office for further management.

Dr Nathaniel Walemba, 68, was washing his hands to enjoy supper at his residence in Kasese, just a few metres away from King Wesley Mumbere’s palace.

Time check was 8:15pm; November 27, 2016.

It was an unusual Sunday since the UPDF had earlier raided Mumbere’s palace to forcefully occupy what authorities described as a den of armed criminals.

Due to the intense gunfire at the palace, Walemba spent the better part of the day at the heavily-guarded District Headquarters – just like many terrified neighbours of the embattled King.

He had driven out of his home to Kasese town to buy “stuff for my breakfast” when he realised that heavily-armed UPDF combatants were in the vicinity.

“There were many UPDF soldiers around the Palace. It didn’t take long for the fighting to break out,” he recounted to ChimpReports when we met in Kasese this week.

The gunfire ended around 6:00pm, encouraging Walemba to return to his residence.

Little did he realise this would be the beginning of a long and difficult journey.

Struggling with hunger pain, Walemba was eager to have his first meal of the day.

Unusual visitor

As he washed his hands, he heard a loud knock on his door.

“The officers came into my house and said some people were taking pictures of their operation,” recalled Walemba, a retired educationist.

Walemba lived and worked in Nairobi for about 20 years.

Upon retirement, Walemba returned to his ancestral home where he opened a school.

He also decided to volunteer as a church administrator.

A few days before the Palace raid, Walemba had received a call from a friend in Nairobi to accompany his son to an introduction ceremony in Kasese

He later welcomed a delegation of thirty men including Newton, the husband of KTN news anchor and journalist Doreen Joy Biira.

A day before the attack on Mumbere’s palace (Saturday), Walemba participated in the colourful function that saw Biira introduce Newton to her family.

Several Ugandan journalists also graced the do.

After the function, Newton and some of his friends stayed at Walemba’s residence.

Love

On Sunday (November 27), Biira came to check on her lovely husband at Walemba’s home.

“They wanted to go out for a good lunch. But as soon as they drove out, heavy gunfire erupted at the palace. They returned inside but the gate remained open,” said Walemba.

So when cops asked Walemba who had taken pictures of their operation, he didn’t have an immediate answer.

“Who do you stay with?” security officers asked the retired educationist.

“About four days ago I received visitors from Kenya and they are here. But they are leaving tomorrow,” he responded.

The officers asked Walemba to call the occupants of the house.

Biira and his husband’s friends were quizzed by security: “Did you take pictures using a camera?”

They responded in unison: “No.”

Biira’s Twitter handle carried updates of the attack on Mumbere’s palace.

“Continued gun shots in Kasese town Just metres away from @Omusinga’s neighbourhood,” one of the Tweets read in part.

Continued gun shots in Kasese town Just metres away from @Omusinga‘S neighbourhood

— Joy Doreen BIIRA (@JoyDoreenBiira) November 27, 2016

Her Instagram account also had a video of the burning palace.

And I was present and watching when half of the palace of the kingdom I’m from burned down in front of my own eyes some of the parts burnt down held the stronger part of my heritage #mykingdom #myheritage

A video posted by JoyDoreenBiira a.k.a JDB (@joydoreenbiira) on Nov 27, 2016 at 4:55am PST

“Did you take pictures using a phone?” cops pressed further.

Still the answer was a big “no.”

Arrest

“Okay,” said a cop, adding, “Please come with us to the police vehicle.”

Still in shock, Walemba told cops he would not stay home until he was sure of where “you are taking my children.”

Walemba thought Biira andcolleagues sgues would be asked a few questions before being released.

At 10:00pm, Walemba called the Kasese District Police Commander: “Where are my children?”

The DPC responded: “They are spending a night here.”

The following day (November 28, 2016), Walemba drove to Kasese Police Station.

Biira and her husband were led by cops to Walemba’s residence for an inspection.

Memory Card

“Police found a camera in the compound. But the chip had been removed. The cops told Biira and Newton to produce the memory chip,” recalled Walemba.

Realising the tension at his house, Walemba decided to take Biira and Newton aside, urging them to comply with police orders.

“You can’t run away from responsibility. If you have the card, give it to them. Taking pictures is not a crime,” Walemba told the troubled couple.

The memory card, according to Walemba, was found in his home library.

He said the camera belonged to Newton’s mother who had travelled back to Nairobi on Sunday morning.

“Police took the laptop, camera and a car key. The cops said they would not have carried out arrests if the couple had given them the camera and memory card on Sunday night,” said Walemba.

At the time, Ugandan journalists were speculating that Biira was picked from her uncle’s residence.

Walemba said he was not related to Biira.

He further dismissed reports that the residence located opposite Mumbere’s palace gate belonged to Biira’s father.

Biira was released on Monday morning on police bond.

She was charged with abetting terrorism, a case being challenged by human rights activists.

Reactions

Biira’s arrest attracted a backlash from human rights groups.

“It is bad enough that Ugandan authorities desired to censor coverage of a newsworthy event, but the use of anti-terrorism laws to intimidate a journalist is a vast overreach,” Angela Quintal, CPJ’s Africa Program coordinator, said from New York.

“Journalism is not terrorism. The state’s charges against Joy Doreen Biira should be dropped without delay.”

Biira told CPJ that she had “fully cooperated with the police in their investigations and hope that in the end, they will find that all this was a mistake on their part.”

She added: “I am sure they will clear our names of the grave and ridiculous charges. My social media postings are public and do not constitute a violation of any law. As a professional and practicing journalist, I believe in the ethics of my profession. In this instant, I believe I held it to the highest possible standard.”

The journalist was allowed to return to Kenya but is expected to appear at Kasese Police Station on December 8.

It was busy Friday evening on November 4 at Nyabuswa Town, Mugusu Sub-county in Kabarole District, Western Uganda.

At Mugusu market, clusters of traders stood at a respectful distance, negotiating with customers for better offers.

The chirping from birds was music to the ears of town dwellers.

The kids, no matter their cultural background or economic situation, found imaginative ways to have fun.

The small town located on the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains boasts a grocery store, shops, bars, Health Centre IV, beauty salon and market.

It’s in this tiny town that a horrifying incident sparked a deadly battle whose ramifications would be felt not only across Kabarole but the entire country and also pose an existential threat to the once powerful Rwenzururu Kingdom.

At around 6:00pm, Private Mohammed Mulanda attached to the 3^rd Division arrived at Nyabuswa market to purchase household items for his wife.

As luck would have it, Mulanda bumped into an old friend. The two chose to share a drink at a bar, just a few metres away from the market.

Hugging, sharing jokes and reminiscing on their good childhood moments, the duo sat in the corner of the bar where they settled for cheap beer.

“Comrade,” Mulanda told his colleague, “I have been hearing about Kimira Mutima militia. Why do they kill innocent people?”

Kimira Mutima is an armed wing of the Rwenzururu Kingdom. Its fighters accuse the government of Uganda of marginalization, a charge government denies.

The Rwenzururu government has since distanced itself from the militia, saying it doesn’t believe in violence to address its concerns.

Mulanda was innocently sharing his thoughts about the Movement, which, unknowingly, would later cost his precious life.

“With this peace ushered in by this government, I wouldn’t allow anyone to destabilize this country. Even if it were my brother or father involved in Kimira Mutima activities, I would pick my gun and act accordingly,” charged Mulanda.

Whether his remarks were out of his conviction as a trained soldier or under the influence of the beer, no one could tell.

According to the bar owner, Richard Bagyenda, little did Mulanda realise members of the Kirumira Mutima he was demonizing were seated just a few inches away from him.

“Do you want to see Kirumira Mutima?” one of the men in the bar asked the soldier, who was wearing a UPDF uniform.

“Yes, I would wish to,” Mulanda responded.

“Ok, you will see them,” said one of the men before exiting the bar.

Mulanda and his colleague continued chatting, with the soldier revealing how he would spend his pass leave (14 days) before deployment in Somalia.

Hell breaks loose

In a space of less than ten minutes, a conflict emerged outside the bar. Some strangers were beating up Selevestia Asiimwe whom many knew as a Crime Preventer.

Mulanda quickly picked his handset to call police but the telecommunication network was not the best.

Just across the road, he found an elevated area where he hoped to make a successful call.

Mulanda crossed this road to find an elevated area to make a phone call to the police

Still, Mulanda did not notice he had been lured out of the bar and his life was now in danger. The beating up of the crime preventer was a decoy.

As he made his call, Mulanda saw dozens of machete-wielding men running towards him.

The unarmed soldier tried to run for his life only for the militants to intercept him about 15 metres away.

“One of Kirumira Mutima used a long sharpened machete to stab him in the back. The machete pierced his heart, landing with a thud. We saw him struggle for breath before dying in a pool of blood,” recounted John Eribankya, the area LC 1 chairman.

The bar owner (wearing black jumper) showing the Chimp Corp (R) where Mulanda fell after being stabbed by a Kirumira Mutima militant

Eribankya has not only served as the area LC 1 chairman since 1985 but also heads the committee that runs and supervises the market.

“Mulanda was a Mukonjo. The people who killed him were Bakonjo. They later celebrated in the town that they had killed a soldier in uniform,” said Eribankya.

“I knew the tension and resentment which was bubbling beneath the surface for long had hit boiling levels.”

A few years earlier, the Bakonjo who dominate the hilly areas of Karangura and Kamabare (Kabarole) wanted to take over lowlands of Mugusu Parish inhabited by Batooro.

After several meetings, according to leaders, this proposal was rejected by Batooro. “We gave the Bakonjo several sub-counties; there is no way we could allow them to take over our land,” said one of the local chiefs who preferred anonymity so as to speak freely.

“But they kept buying land from Batooro. We don’t know their source of funds but it was clear to all of us they wanted to extend their influence in our areas and eventually take over.”

Market battle

When Mulanda was killed, area residents looked at the incident as a provocation.

They picked stones and engaged the Kirumira Mutima for about three hours.

“It was a bloody battle. The attackers retreated to the mountains, leaving a trail of bloodshed and destruction,” said Eribankya.

The following day, Police deployed personnel in the town to investigate the soldier’s killing.

Residents of Nyabuswa Town keeping an eye on the developments at the UPDF base in the area

According to Bagyenda, Kirumira Mutima informed all its members about the police presence in the area.

“We saw militants encircling the town. Another battle ensued, leaving two Rwenzururu fighters dead. As police were returning to the station, their truck was ambushed by the fighters who wanted to take away the bodies of their fallen colleague,” said Mugusu sub-county chairperson, Joram Tumusiime.

“Several fighters were killed in this ambush. These people bury their fighters at night in unmarked graves,” added the 53-year-old leader.

The fighting between security forces and the militia sent shockwaves in Kabarole, compelling Mugusu residents to shift from their homes to the sub-county headquarters.

The UPDF leadership at the time thought this was nothing but an ethnic clash.

Drones

According to Kabarole RDC Stephen Asiimwe, “President Museveni visited that area on a tour of wealth creation programmes. All he said was that the ADF was thoroughly defeated and that insecurity could no longer be tolerated.”

Kabarole RDC Stephen Asiimwe speaking to Chimp Corps during an interview at his office in Fort Portal last week

When Mulanda’s life was brutally taken, the army thought twice. Investigators flooded the area to prepare notes for President Museveni.

On the other hand, the fighters decided to build camps in Kamabare from where fighters reportedly trained and mobilised for what appeared to locals a plan for a large scale operation.

“They raised their Yiira Republic flag. One could see fighters hoisting this flag every morning,” said Tumusiime, adding, “The group is organized. They wear red and black shirts as their uniform during attacks.”

The police and UPDF held meetings in the area to listen to the residents’ concerns.

“Security was here for a week assessing the situation. The civilians were disgusted that government was not acting,” said a one Peace in an interview with ChimpReports.

It was a matter of time for the military to take action. But the fighters were not ready to be picked like grasshoppers.

Role of the army

Military chiefs who spoke to this website said talks between Rwenzururu King Wesley Mumbere started as early as 2014 when militants raided security facilities in clashes that left dozens dead.

“We organized many talks with Mumbere but he did not show interest in solving these problems,” said UPDF 305 Brigade Commander, Lt Col Richard Kiwanuka at his office last week.

“When a police officer was killed at Kidodo, we told Mumbere that our gun was hidden at the palace. He said, ‘I will find out’”, recalled Kiwanuka.

“On 3^rd April, 2016, two soldiers were killed near his palace. When we told him to hand over suspects hiding at his palace for interrogation, Mumbere refused. He kept promising to surrender them in vain,” he added.

Amid the tension between the army and Rwenzururu Kingdom, Museveni sent 2^nd Division Commander, Brig Peter Elwelu to meet with the King at his palace in Kasese.

Lt. Col. Kiwanuka speaking to ChimpReports’ Kenneth Kazibwe at the UPDF barracks in Hima

“The armed Royal Guards almost stripped us naked. Elwelu carried Museveni’s message urging Mumbere to release the suspects. Museveni also said we can’t have two forces. So we pulled out UPDF guards and he stayed with his armed royal guards,” narrated Lt Col Kiwanuka.

The Rwenzururu government decided to recruit more Royal Guards throughout Kasese, Kabarole and Bundibugyo.

“30 guards were stationed at each sub-county. They would raise the Yiira Republic flag every morning,” recalled Kasese Mayor Godfrey Kabyanga.

The Royal Guard was accused of attacking police stations to loot guns; extorting money from people and killing policemen.

“The people living near Mumbere’s palace had to be home before 7:00pm. Beyond that time, the Royal Guards would seal off the area,” noted Kabyanga.

On April 25, 2016, Museveni sent the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Katumba Wamala to inform Mumbere to disband the Royal Guard.

Mumbere did not oblige.

“So we gave him another opportunity – to reduce the number of his guards to two per sub-county. We told him to select 30 of his best men for professional military training. We also proposed to put the trained guards on our payroll,” said Lt Col Kiwanuka.

It is understood Mumbere asked for more time to discuss the matter with his administration.

“Please give me time,” Mumbere told the UPDF, adding, “Those whom you want for crimes will be handed over.”

Kiwanuka confirmed this response, adding, “We were positive and ready to make peace. We told police not to hunt for the suspected criminals. It was like a ceasefire.”

Rwenzururu speak out

According to Rwenzururu officials, the King was suspicious of the military’s intentions.

“Mumbere thought the army wanted to compromise his guards to spy on him,” said a top official at the Kingdom who preferred anonymity to speak freely.

“The King fired many officials, accusing them of espionage. It was a tense moment for us to decide on handing over our best men.”

The Rwenzururu Cabinet sitting at the palace would later denounce government’s proposal.

“We couldn’t disband the guard,” said the source in the Rwenzururu Kingdom.

At public functions, Mumbere openly criticized Museveni for listening to “lies peddled by his informers” and “flooding my Kingdom with intelligence agents.”

However, according to Kasese RDC, Maj James Mwesigye, the King instead of disbanding his guard decided to recruit and deploy more of them in different sub-counties.

“It was terror. We couldn’t allow this,” said Mwesigye.

He revealed that during Mumbere’s coronation, thousands of Bayiira from the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo graced the function which was secured by the Royal Guards.

“These people had machetes. They wanted to disarm me, a move I rejected. Police and the army were not allowed anywhere near the function. The Bayiira said at the function that they would help Mumbere gain autonomy from Uganda,” said Mwesige.

Mumbere had as well spoken at several public functions, saying the Bakonjo were “ready to fight and die” for their Kingdom.

He also castigated president Museveni for undermining his authority by propping up chiefdoms in Rwenzori for the Banyabindi, Bamba and Basongora.

This information was corroborated by Kasese Mayor Kabyanga, a former close ally and confidant of Mumbere.

“The Bayiira gave Mumbere confidence they would support him to realise his ambitions. Even the Royal Guard started giving ranks to its members. That’s how the situation got out of hand,” said Kabyanga.

Attacks

Lt Col Kiwanuka said a few days later, the Royal Guard started attacking police posts.

According to Internal Affairs Minister, Jeje Odong, on November 26, the guards of Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu attacked the joint security patrol team in Kasese town with a petrol bomb, stabbed and injured a soldier.

This was immediately followed by simultaneous attacks in Ihandiro sub county, at Kagando hospital in Kisunga sub county, Bwesumbu, Kyabarungira, Mubuku in Maliba sub county and Ibanda in Bugoyi sub county.

In all, 16 policemen lost their lives and 6 guns were taken by the attackers

“They killed our soldiers here in Hima. I called the King and asked him, ‘What is this?’” said Lt Col Kiwanuka.

“In another area, two officers were killed while trying to arrest a rape suspect. Security is mandated to guard the people of Uganda. This was too much for us,” said the Commander.

Camp Raid

The UPDF decided to send reconnaissance agents to Kabarole and Kasese in preparation for a possible encounter with the Royal Guard.

The Kirumira Mutima had already set up camps on hills overlooking UPDF bases.

Lt Col Kiwanuka said efforts to convince Mumbere to persuade his fighters to surrender the camp fell on deaf ears.

“They were creating improvised explosives such as petrol bombs and stocking food and ammunition. We told Mumbere that this was a terrorist group but he simply looked on,” he added.

Sources told ChimpReports that the army immediately planned to execute a combat operation in the Mountains.

This force comprised the 305 Brigade soldiers who are trained in Mountain Warfare, with support from elite units in the UPDF such as snipers.

Entebbe Airbase dispatched a unit of surveillance experts who used drones to relay live footage and coordinates of the militants’ base at Kamabare to the headquarters of UPDF Airforce.

Maj Kitatamuyima showing us the attacked Kamabare camp in the Rwenzori Mountains

Chimp Corp Giles Muhame inspecting the Kamabare Camp

A reconnaissance plane was eventually dispatched to confirm the targets.

The battle plan was drawn and approved by the military leadership.

“Our commanders told us that using artillery in the mountains would leave many innocent people dead. That’s why we used a small mountain force with snipers to hit specific targets,” said Maj Fred Kitatamuyima, the 2^nd in Command of the 305 Brigade.

“We fell in two ambushes but went through them successfully. Several fighters died while others retreated to the neighboring mountains bordering Congo,” he told us.

Storming of the Palace

As UPDF carried out attacks in Kabarole, Museveni was on the phone with Mumbere.

It appears, the two failed to agree on a mutual agreement on the Royal Guards’ fate hiding at his palace in Kasese.

“The war had started,” recalled Lt Col Kiwanuka, adding, “The situation was changing.”

A Private was killed in the clashes while 8 guards had been taken out of action in Kasese.

UPDF contacted Mumbere through emissaries including his brother William Kibazanga to convince the king to tell his men to surrender and denounce violence.

Mumbere responded: “Give me time, I will handle it.”

Sensing danger, the King’s wife Agnes Nyabaghole Ithungu decided to run away from the palace to Kampala where the couple’s kids live.

“We intercepted the Queen in Kabarole as she fled to Kampala. In the car were Royal Guards with pangas. We held her for several hours until we received orders to take away the weapons and let her continue with her journey,” said Kabarole RDC Stephen Asiimwe.

Night Before the Storm

A day before the attack, UPDF units camped at Kasese Secondary School which shares a wall fence with Mumbere’s palace.

“The Royal guard cut all the trees near the wall fence, saying they were obstructing their observation posts,” recounted the school headmaster, Augustine Musereru, 52.

“UPDF had surrounded the school. All students were relocated to the girls’ dormitory. Other soldiers were camped on top of the hill. I advised students not to roam around the compound. It was a tense moment for us,” he told ChimpReports.

Kasese Secondary School shares a wall fence with Mumbere’s palace

Asked whether the boys enjoyed socializing with the girls at the latter’s dormitory, Musereru smiled from ear to ear.

“Our teachers quietly sneaked out and did not return until the end of the palace attack. The soldiers told us to remain calm, assuring us of safety,” he added.

According to Lt Col Kiwanuka, Brig Peter Elwelu on Sunday morning (Nov. 27) met with Mumbere’s top officials.

“The message was: order Royal Guards to disengage, disarm and surrender. The King showed us that he couldn’t decide. We sent another delegation of emissaries but we did not break through this stalemate,” recalled Lt Col Kiwanuka.

“There were about 300 people in the palace including the King. Some were not armed. Others had smeared themselves with Mai Mai drugs that looked like porridge,” he added.

Rwenzururu Kingdom officials said the army was impatient while opposition FDC President Maj Gen Mugisha Muntu observed that UPDF should have sealed off the palace until the fighters surrendered instead of raiding it.

But Lt Col Kiwanuka does not subscribe to this school of thought.

“We were in a state of war. 16 officers had been killed. Police stations were being attacked.  We had started negotiations with the King two years earlier without a breakthrough. For how long should we have waited?” wondered the Lieutenant Colonel.

When Elwelu and Museveni fell short of winning Mumbere’s trust, UPDF commandos raided the palace.

“We used a few soldiers in this operation. Heavy artillery was out of the question. That’s why Mumbere’s residence is intact and we were able to rescue over 130 people. We found the women had undressed themselves. We were later informed that a Congolese witchdoctor had hoodwinked them that his drugs would repel bullets,” added Lt Kiwanuka.

Asked why most of the huts were burnt to ashes yet UPDF did not use heavy weapons to attack the palace, officials said the Royal Guards’ improvised explosives ignited the raging flames that consumed the better part of the shrines at the palace.

“Our intention was not to kill anyone. We had lost 16 officers in the clashes a few days ago. We had no option with those who resisted,” said Lt Col Kiwanuka.

UPDF says the shrines at the palace was razed down by fire from the militia’s home made explosives

But why would Mumbere choose a fight after being informed that a more powerful force had surrounded his palace?

Kabyanga, a former Reform Agenda diehard who was thrice jailed for agitating for the recognition of Obusinga, attributed Mumbere’s woes to witchcraft.

“Congolese witchdoctors confused him. They gave him false hope that he was untouchable. Somehow, people made him feel he was more powerful than the President,” said Kabyanga, now serving as Kasese Mayor.

“The politicians and witchdoctors inflated his ego. They were telling him that Museveni would be defeated by 2016 and that United Nations is coming to take over the country.”

The empty bullet shells were visible in the palace after the UPDF raid

Some of the ‘traditional’ utensils found in the burnt shrines at the Rwenzururu Palace

The alleged ‘central command centre’ of the Royal Guards was destroyed in the attack

But then, why would Mumbere who spent 25 years working in United States as a nursing assistant believe in witchcraft.

“Mumbere lived in the Rwenzori Mountains for decades until 1984 when he cracked a deal with Milton Obote to surrender in exchange for a scholarship in United States. He was seeing witchcraft at a tender age. When his Kingdom was recognized in 2009, witchdoctors returned to disorganize him,” said Kabyanga.

“I support Obusinga but there are many issues we need to address especially witchcraft,” he added.

Kabyanga said efforts are underway to rehabilitate Rwenzururu militants who surrender to authorities.

Rwenzururu King, Omusinga Mumbere (C) was arrested on Sunday

By late Sunday evening when the fight at the palace came to an end, Omusinga was in an armoured military truck being taken to Kasese Police Station.

And quietly, the teachers who had escaped from Kasese Secondary School ahead of the UPDF raid, stealthily returned to class.

On Saturday, Nov. 26, students at Kasese Secondary School woke up to heavy deployment of heavily-armed UPDF soldiers around their school.

This was a rare spectacle to the school community.

The traditional government school shares a wall fence with the palace of Rwenzururu King, Wesley Mumbere.

“We had not seen such a huge number of soldiers around our school in a long time,” said the headmaster, Augustine Musereru, 52.

“A teacher came to my office and said, ‘sir, there will be a problem. We see soldiers on top of the hill,’” Musereru recounted when he met with ChimpReports in Kasese last week.

Unknown to the school community, the UPDF Second Division Commander, Brig Peter Elwelu had already commenced deployments around the palace in what appeared a well prepared assault plan.

“At around 9:00am, the Rwenzururu Royal Guard started cutting down trees near the wall fence, saying they were obstructing their observation posts,” said Musereru.

It was at this time that President Museveni was engaging Mumbere to surrender all the suspected armed men in his palace to police and military forces.

The stalemate in the talks allowed UPDF to secure a cordon around Mumbere’s residence.

However, in the vicinity of the palace were residential houses and a school with hundreds of kids.

Any mistake on the part of UPDF would leave hundreds dead.

Forcing administrators to close the school would raise suspicion among the fighters in the palace.

“I advised students not to move around. We had incidents of fighting in Kasese Town.  It was a dangerous and trying moment for us,” Musereru added.

Students were not only terrified at the prospect of falling victim in a possible crossfire but also failing their national examinations which were already underway.

Several occupants of houses neighbouring the palace fled to the district headquarters in Kasese Town.

At Kasese Secondary School, said Musereru, some staff came around to assess “what was happening. Many did not sleep in their houses.”

Combat Plan

Throughout the night, Brig Elwelu and the military leadership planned to attack the palace in case Mumbere fell short of complying with a presidential directive.

Who would carry out the attack? How would the forces distinguish unarmed civilians from fighters? What time would the assault take place? Who would rescue the soldiers in case they were overwhelmed? Who would evacuate the wounded? Who would secure the King?

Police keep an eye on Rwenzururu palace after the attack

Defence officials told ChimpReports that the war was planned for over 8 hours, relying mainly on intelligence from sources inside the palace and aerial surveillance.

“We knew where the fighters were hiding. We knew their number and the weapons they carried. Our major interest was securing our men on ground; ensuring civilians are not killed in the crossfire and pulling out the king alive,” said a commander who participated in the operation.

“It was a highly sensitive operation. So we used elite units to do a very good work. That why 139 people were rescued from the palace. Only those who put up a fight were taken out of action,” he added, preferring anonymity so as to speak freely.

Rwenzururu speak out

Rwenzururu spokesperson Michael Asiimwe Bwambale believes the kingdom was a victim of false intelligence.

“It is important to note that Kasese’s political stand today has left some selfish political failure’s hands tied and the only way to be recognised again by government, is to feed government on wrong information basing on the past weaknesses of our forefathers’ dream of forming a new state which was withdrawn since the main actor died,” said Bwambale.

“True, many may not understand the truth of the matter since most Rwenzori people have not got a chance to give our side of the story,” he added.

At the time of the attack, UPDF had received information that several fighters linked to ADF and Mai Mai were camped at the palace.

“The fighters inside the palace had dug trenches. They were creating defensive positions in anticipation of an attack. Mumbere was in the middle of his fighters who were armed with guns and improvised explosive,” recalled Lt Col Kiwanuka who commands the 305 Brigade in Hima.

“Mumbere also showed the president he was in charge of his men. Those guys were organized in real military formation,” he added.

Rwenzururu spokesperson: Michael Bwambale

But Bwambale denies reports that Rwenzururu was militaristic.

He shared on his Facebook page: “I am aware that truth and sincerity are the first casualties of a crisis. But I tell you countrymen that God is watching each step that is being taken to distract Kasese, and no one shall succeed.”

How we saw it

On Sunday morning (Nov. 27), soldiers entered Kasese Secondary School, closing in on the palace.

“Soldiers came in at 9:00am on Sunday. They told students to remain calm. We shifted students to the girls’ dormitory which is far away from classrooms,” recalled Musereru.

“The UPDF told our students that, ‘if you hear gunfire, don’t get scared.’ Two soldiers were left behind to provide security. A few hours later, the shooting started,’” said Musereru.

Elite commando units struck the palace with light fire, allowing its members to gain entry.

“We had a close combat action for a few hours. We met some resistance but managed to overpower the fighters. The King was quickly picked and taken away using an armoured vehicle,” said a UPDF commander.

Asked if the fighters displayed modern fighting skills, the commander responded: “Yes, they appear to have received training. They were decisive but could not in any way defeat us.”

He added: “Some were armed with machetes. We didn’t allow them to get close to us. After taking fighters out of action, we secured civilians and the naked women. Those who were injured were rushed to a military hospital while suspects faced police interrogation.”

Explosion

At Kasese SSS, said Musereru, “no one was injured. We had supper at around 6:00pm. Soldiers ensured no one left the school. They were in charge of the whole situation.”

Asked how the attack inconvenienced him, Musereru responded: “The students were so terrified. They didn’t have the chance and time to adequately prepare for the UACE exams. I don’t know how they will perform.”

Three students at the school collapsed during the raid of Mumbere’s palace, according to the headteacher.

“The UPDF first aid team resuscitated them. The soldiers came and apologised for what happened,” he added.

Fragments from explosives hit the school library, shattering windows while the roof was nearly blown off.

The Royal Guards’ vehicle was damaged in the palace attack

While Musereru appreciated what he called the UPDF’s professionalism, he faulted them for detonating a bomb while students were sitting their UACE examination paper.

“At first, soldiers came and alerted us they would detonate a bomb. That was good. But they didn’t alert us about another bomb detonated hours later,” he observed.

“It shocked us.”

Musereru later called police and the army which assured him that all was well hence calling all staff to resume work.

When Chimp Corps visited the school last week, students and teachers were busy going about their business.

Police have spoken out on the circumstances under which an accident occured along Mbarara-Isingiro road on Saturday that killed former KCCA Physical Planning Director George Agaba and left President Museveni’s sister Dr Violet Kajubiri in critical condition.
Rwizi Police Spokesperson, Ibin Ssenkumbi said the fatal accident occured today at Nyamitanga on the road to isingiro from Mbarara at 11:30 am.
He said the car in which Kajubiri and Agaba were travelling in registration number, UG 0672B was headed to Isingiro but that the driver lost control while  “trying to avoid knocking a pedal cyclist.”
He said the car overturned.
“One of the passengers, Agaba George Ninsima died on arrival at Mbarara Hospital,” said Ssenkumbi.
“Dr. Violet Kajubiri working with EC sustained a broken leg,” he added.
The driver Joseph Kyaligonza  was unconscious while the bodyguard Corporal Francis Atwine sustained minor injuries.
“The three were airlifted to Kampala,” he added.

The Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala has said the UPDF will start conducting annual physical fitness tests for all its personnel, effective March 2017.
“Starting from next year March, we are going to do Individual and unit fitness tests. It’s a must for every serving Officer and Militant to pass the test,” he said.
“The tests will  form part of the criteria for retirement or discharge.”
Cases of senior army officers suddenly collapsing dead have in recent years left the nation in shock.
Some are obese while others don’t participate in any physical fitness exercises.
Gen Wamala encouraged the UPDF sportsmen and women to keep fit for these tests and also professionally help other soldiers to keep physically fit.
Gen Katumba Wamala said this while receiving donations of six trophies and soccer uniforms for eighteen UPDF teams that will participate in the 2016 Chief of Defence Forces’ Cup due on December 12 – 20, 2016 at UPDF 3rd Division in Mbale.
The donations were handed over at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Mbuya by the Chief Executive Officer of WSACCO, Col Simon Ocan and City Tyre’s Mr. Hebert Bashaha on behalf of Mr Hajj Umar Mandela who is out of the country.
Gen Wamala noted that sports is important in keeping the forces alert and physically fit for other duties.
He further said the armed forces had been the power house that earlier produced the best players in Uganda but had been affected by a series of security challenges that kept them busy.
“Now that we have moved ahead of that and the country is now peaceful, we can have our Officers and militants engage in more sports to keep fit,” he said, before also donating two bulls and three goats for the best performing teams in the forthcoming tournament.
Col Ocan said as part of cooperate social responsibility, WSACCO does not only sponsor sports activities, but also mass weddings in the army and subscription of Satellite Television  for selected UPDF units.
“In this way, we say thank you for doing business with us.” Col Ocan said.
Mr Bashaha noted that City Tyres would continue supporting all UPDF sports activities whenever  called upon and other sports activities in the country.
The CDF Cup is an annual championship between all UPDF units that is hosted on a rotational basis.
This year the 3rd Division will host the championships.
In 2014 and 2015, the trophy was won by General headquarters.

In 1995, Colonel Samson Mande, a battle-hardened combatant and commander in the NRA, was arrested by military police.

It was alleged Mande was quietly planning a rebellion against the young government of president Museveni.

For about five years, Mande was in and out of jail fighting back on a range of criminal cases including alleged embezzlement of $2m at the Uganda Embassy in Tanzania and supplying arms to Uganda National Democratic Alliance rebel commander, Herbert Itongwa.

In 2001, Mande escaped to Rwanda.

He was accused of running the People’s Redemption Army, a guerrilla outfit based in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Mande would later flee to Sweden where he has lived since then.

However, news filtered in this past weekend that Mande had left Sweden to Tanzania.

Sources told ChimpReports that security has been investigating reports that Mande has been residing in Tanzania where he has many friends.

“Somehow we were informed that Mande disappeared in Tanzania late November,” said a knowledgeable source

“And his wife later travelled to Uganda.”

Mande, who usually talks to ChimpReports, was unavailable for comment when we contacted him on Monday.

Security chiefs we talked to also denied knowledge about Mande’s moves.

Chief of Military Intelligence, Brigadier Charles Bakahumura said he was not aware about Mande’s alleged trip.

Asked whether Mande was in Kampala, Bakahumura responded: “I have no idea.”

Bakahumura, who facilitated the return of dissident Lt Col Anthony Kyakabale, added: “Any information about his whereabouts is appreciated.”

Mande has on several occasions hinted on his desire and plans to return to Uganda once shown a green light by the regime.

He recently told this website about his readiness to hold talks with government as soon as he returned home but that he would not be compelled to join the ruling system.

He said he doesn’t want to follow in the footsteps of his former colleague in the PRA, Lt Col Kyakabale who was pardoned by the President in March, 2015.

“I am willing to discuss any matter with the government as long as they don’t force me to join NRMO as Kyakabale,” stated Mande.

“I am not jobless here so I am not under economic duress like Kyakabale was. I have my own projects and property in Uganda so I need no government job or help,” he added.

“I want to come and offer solutions or be part of the ongoing struggle for the political social economic challenges my motherland is going through.”

On December 19, 2016, UPDF Chief of Staff Land Forces, Brigadier Leopold Kyanda arrived at the General Military Headquarters in Bombo.

He was accompanying the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Katumba Wamala who was the chief guest at the UPDF Children’s Christmas party.

He looked calm and relaxed as he checked messages on his smart phone.

In his brief speech, Kyanda said the kids are the foundation of the army.

“It’s their day to enjoy,” he added, before politely inviting the Gen Katumba to give his speech.

Brig. Kyanda, who was calm throughout the function, was later invited to dance for the kids before later joining the CDF in sharing a cake with the soldiers’ children

Little did it occur to Kyanda that this would be his last moment as Chief of Staff in the UPDF.

Today December 20, 2016, a radio call announced the firing of the once powerful Brigadier General.

Asked to confirm Kyanda’s sacking, army spokesperson Lt Col Paddy Ankunda told ChimpReports on Tuesday: “That’s true.”

Pressed to comment on the matter, Lt Col Ankunda added: “It’s a great opportunity for Kyanda to improve on his skills.”

Brig Geoffrey Katsigazi has been appointed as a caretaker of the sensitive position as Museveni searches for a substantive Chief of Staff Land Forces.

Analysis

The sacking heralds the possible downfall of a once reputed and extremely powerful figure in the Ugandan military hierarchy.

Having successful commanded the elite Presidential Guard at a time when the president’s life faced threats from Sudan, DRC and other foreign enemies; Kyanda was elevated to lead the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence.

His reign came to a crushing end following accusations of providing sanctuary to cocaine drug dealers.

He was sent to United States as a military attaché.

Kyanda, who was a Colonel, used this opportunity to do some soul searching and accepted Jesus Christ as his savior.

Kyanda would later convince the First family that he had reformed and was ready to serve with honour and dignity.

The President appointed him Chief of personnel Administration in UPDF before elevating him to Chief of Staff Land Forces, a position that would have led him to Chief of Defence Forces.

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However, hell broke loose when ChimpReports ran a blockbuster investigation report, showing how conmen led by Sam Ssimbwa robbed Polish arms contractors from the Military Headquarters in Bombo.

The conmen sitting in the boardroom of the army headquarters lied to the contractors they needed arms worth millions of dollars.

Kyanda at the UPDF Children Christmas party at military headquarters in Bombo on December 19 (Photo: Kenneth Kazibwe/ChimpReports)

The polish contractors were told to send money for paperwork which the conmen ate and switched off their phones.

The main suspect Simbwa was briefly arrested before being released by Police’s Special Investigations Unit Commander, Mark Odong due to alleged pressure from Kyanda.

“When Simbwa was arrested by SIU, Kyanda ordered Odong to release him,” said a knowledgeable source.

However, Lt Kyanda denied the charge, saying he has “never contacted Simbwa and does not know him.”

Kyanda further said he knows nothing about that deal and has never contacted Odong to release Simbwa.

The UPDF tried to deny the investigation into Kyanda’s alleged connection to the botched arms deal only to retract their statement following pressure from this investigative website.

A private probe launched by Museveni exposed Kyanda.

The recent High Command sitting at State House Entebbe saw Museveni vowing to crack down on “criminality in UPDF.”

Referring to the arms deal, Museveni said such “impunity would not be tolerated.” It was a matter of time for Museveni to crack the whip.

It remains unclear if Kyanda will be prosecuted or simply sacked.

Additional reporting by Giles Muhame