Ex-CMI Boss Maj. Gen. Birungi's Remand Extended Over Treachery Charges

Maj. Gen. James Birungi, the former head of the Chief Military Intelligence (CMI), has had his remand extended by the General Court Martial sitting in Makindye. This decision came after the state failed to present its response to his bail application during a hearing on Monday, October 5, 2026.

Brig. Gen. Richard Tukacungurwa, who chaired the court, adjourned the proceedings. The prosecution, led by Lt. Regina Nanzaala, cited the unavailability of a key deponent who was expected to swear an affidavit opposing the bail request, as the individual is currently out of the country. Consequently, Maj. Gen. Birungi will remain in detention at the Makindye Military Police Detention Center until October 12, 2026, when the matter is scheduled to be heard again.

Maj. Gen. Birungi has been in custody since August 2025, facing serious accusations of treachery and offenses related to security. These charges stem from an investigation into allegations that senior military officers fabricated intelligence reports about supposed terrorist threats to divert operational funds. The former CMI boss denies all charges.

In related proceedings before the same court, two former government informers, Hamza Lyavaala and Adiil Walusansa, pleaded guilty to two counts of murder. They were involved in a scheme that resulted in the deaths of two women through simulated suicide bombings in 2025. The court heard how these incidents were orchestrated, with one involving a recruited individual carrying an explosive device near the Munyonyo Catholic Shrine, and another in Kalerwe Market. The prosecution is seeking the death penalty for the convicted informers, while the defense has requested leniency. Sentencing for Lyavaala and Walusansa is also set for October 12, 2026.

Additionally, two civilians, Benjamin Nsubuga and Benson Asiimwe, received two-year prison sentences for unlawful possession of firearms and illegal wearing of military attire.