Ex-Chief of Military Intelligence, Maj Gen Birungi, Remanded by Court Martial

The General Court Martial has ordered the detention of Maj Gen James Birungi, who previously led the military intelligence arm of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). He is to remain at the Makindye Military Police detention center until September 24, 2026.

This latest remand, on September 21, 2026, occurred because the individuals who were meant to stand as sureties for his bail were absent from court. This situation is not the first of its kind for the general, as a similar issue with sureties led to his remand in July.

Maj Gen Birungi is facing significant accusations, including charges of treachery and other offenses related to national security. His arrest in August 2025 was part of an extensive inquiry into allegations that fabricated intelligence reports concerning supposed terrorist threats were utilized to acquire operational funds improperly. General Birungi has denied all charges.

A veteran in Uganda’s security sector, Birungi has held various important positions within the UPDF, including commanding the Special Forces Command and leading the UPDF Mountain Division. His current trial is among the most prominent prosecutions of a senior military officer in recent memory, reflecting a renewed emphasis on accountability within the armed forces.

In a separate but related case, two civilians, Benjamin Nsubuga and Benson Asiimwe, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a military uniform and a firearm. They were each sentenced to two years in prison. These sentences will be served at Kitalya and Gulu prisons, respectively.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)