The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces 2nd Infantry Division Spokesman Maj Kiconco Tabaro has refuted allegations that UPDF officers were involved in electoral malpractices in Buhweju District
This comes after three soldiers of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces who included Retired Lt Col James Tumusime, Lt Robert Ssebuya, and Staff Sergeant Chandiga Geoffrey were on July 17th 2025, arrested in Buhweju by the Uganda Police Force on allegations of political involvement and violence and were later taken into custody by the UPDF for further investigation.
Major Kiconco Tabaro however has clarified that preliminary findings have established the following whereas it is true that the three officers were arrested by Police on allegations of violence and political interference it was not the case.
Major Kiconco Tabaro explained that Lt Col Tumusime was on the following day released by the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division because being a retired officer, he is free to engage in lawful civilian activities, including partisan politics.
Major Kiconco Tabaro however went on to explain that since 18th July, further facts have been established and confirmed none of the officers was involved in any acts of violence or political activity and it has been found out that Lt ColTumusime had visited his friend, Hon John Bosco Karisa and spent the night at his home.
It is reported that while returning to his home in Rukungiri District, his car broke down in Buhweju and he called Lt Robert Ssebuya, who brought a new clutch plate and repaired the vehicle and as they tried to leave Buhweju via Bushenyi, their vehicle was blocked from the front and rear by unidentified persons.
Lt Col Tumusime called the District Police Commander of Buhweju for assistance and upon arrival, the Police engaged the group that had blocked the road but proceeded to arrest Lt Col Tumusime and Lt Ssebuya instead.
At this point Lt Col Tumusime informed his friend Hon John Bosco Karisa of the situation who sent his driver, Staff Sgt Chandiga Geoffrey, to the scene and upon arrival, he too was arrested and all three were taken to Buhweju Central Police Station, from where UPDF 2nd Infantry Division later picked them up for further management.
Major Kiconco Tabaro said that Lt Col Tumusime was released unconditionally the next day it has since become clear that the individuals who blocked the officers had exaggerated the incident and politicized it, falsely accusing the officers of violence on baseless claims.
It has been established that the arrest scene appears to have been mismanaged, contributing to misinformation and ironically, the individuals who initially called the Police for help are now portrayed as perpetrators of misconduct and Lt Robert Ssebuya and Staff Sgt Chandiga Geoffrey have since been released.
Maj Kiconco Tabaro therefore said there was no violence or political interference by the said officers and the ongoing smear campaign against UPDF personnel for political gain is regrettable and must stop, but investigations will continue to uncover the motives behind this blackmail and ensure that the truth is upheld.
