Uganda arrests former army deputy chief stripped of military rank

Uganda has apprehended Peter Elwelu, a former deputy military chief and presidential adviser, on charges of potentially destabilizing the nation. Chris Magezi, the military's acting spokesperson, announced Elwelu's arrest on Monday evening, describing him as a "renegade" officer. The former army official is expected to face court charges.

The incident follows the stripping of Elwelu's lieutenant general rank by Uganda's defence chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who demoted him to private. Elwelu, who rose to prominence in 2016 during a military raid on a regional king's palace, later became deputy chief of the defence forces and presidential adviser. In May 2024, the US government imposed sanctions on him due to alleged human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings.

On Monday, military officials recovered 15 guns, military clothing, and two trucks from Elwelu's possession. Kainerugaba accused Elwelu of stockpiling weapons and organizing activities against the government, warning that anyone aiding him would face serious consequences. Elwelu's family denies the allegations, with his wife stating that he is innocent and wants a peaceful Uganda.