By Karim Were
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces is under renewed scrutiny over internal accountability after four of its senior officers were formally charged with misusing operational resources, in a case that underscores concerns about logistics oversight within the military.
The officers—James Barigye Ruheesi, David Ocitti Kidega, Innocent Kikongi Mugumya, and Kenneth Labwon Kinyera—appeared before the General Court Martial in Makindye, where they denied allegations tied to the diversion of large quantities of fuel intended for military operations.
Prosecutors allege that between mid-2022 and late 2023, the officers misappropriated approximately 270,000 litres of automotive gas oil, a critical resource meant to sustain heavy operational equipment under the Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability Center. The alleged actions, according to the charge sheet, risked compromising the army’s readiness and effectiveness.
The court, chaired by Richard Tukacungurwa, heard that the accused held key logistical and administrative roles, placing them in positions of trust over fuel distribution and procurement systems. Their case is being prosecuted under provisions of the UPDF Act related to conduct that endangers operational efficiency.
The four officers have been in military detention since April 2025 following directives from the Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, signaling the army’s intent to clamp down on alleged internal misconduct.
While the prosecution indicated that investigations are nearing completion, the defense emphasized the need for full disclosure of evidence and witnesses to ensure a fair trial. The court granted an adjournment, with the accused remanded to Makindye Military Police Detention Facility pending further proceedings.
The case brings into focus broader questions about accountability mechanisms within military supply chains, particularly in high-stakes operational units tasked with rapid deployment.
