news 7 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ex-Intelligence Chief Charles Rwomushana Released After Radio Station Arrest
Security forces have released Charles Rwomushana, a former political intelligence chief, two days after he was apprehended during a live radio broadcast in Kampala. Rwomushana confirmed his freedom to the show's host on Monday morning. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/security-releases-former-intelligence-chief-rwomushana-following-radio-station-arrest-5586328
Charles Rwomushana, a prominent political analyst and former head of political intelligence, has been freed by security agencies. His release comes after a dramatic arrest from Radio Simba on Saturday, where he was participating in a live current affairs program.
Eyewitnesses described armed soldiers and plainclothes operatives surrounding the radio station, entering the studio, and confiscating Rwomushana’s phones before escorting him away. The incident occurred shortly after Rwomushana reportedly discussed internal power dynamics within the First Family, including remarks about Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and his brother-in-law Odrek Rwabwogo.
Dick Nvule, the host of the Radio Simba show, confirmed Rwomushana’s release, stating that the analyst had contacted him early Monday. Rwomushana indicated he was released on Sunday night but has remained tight-lipped about the details of his detention, including the location and any formal charges.
Attempts to get official comments from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces and the Uganda Police Force were unsuccessful by press time. This incident adds to growing concerns over arbitrary arrests of political commentators and opposition figures in Uganda, with human rights activists frequently decrying alleged heavy-handedness by state security apparatuses.
Rwomushana has a history of run-ins with security forces. In 2020, he was arrested for allegedly violating COVID-19 curfew rules after a television appearance. In 2016, his detention was linked to social media posts about the disappearance of Christopher Aine. He also faced scrutiny in connection with a treason case involving opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye.