UPDF GENERALS DON NABASA, NAMANYA DETAINED ON MUHOOZI’S ORDERS

NILE POST

Two high-ranking Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officers, Major General Don William Nabasa and Brigadier General Johnson Namanya Abaho are currently in custody at the Kasenyi military installation following directives issued by Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

The development, reported on Friday, March 27, 2026, signals another wave of internal accountability measures within the military hierarchy.

No official statement has been released by UPDF authorities detailing the specific reasons for the detentions or any formal charges.

Sources close to the matter indicate the move forms part of ongoing efforts to enforce stricter discipline and address performance or administrative lapses across various commands.

Major General  Nabasa previously commanded the Third Infantry Division based in Moroto and earlier served as head of the Special Forces Command before transitioning to a strategic role at UPDF headquarters.

In January 2025, he assumed responsibility for Joint Staff Policy and Strategy, a position focused on shaping long-term defence planning and operational frameworks.

Brigadier General Namanya had only recently returned to full military duties.

In February 2026, he and another senior officer were recalled from secondment at the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC), where he had served as Commissioner for Citizenship and Passport Management.

The recall came shortly after CDF Muhoozi ordered a broad review of immigration operations. Brig Namanya ’s return to Defence headquarters was expected to lead to new internal assignments, but events appear to have taken a different turn.

These latest actions follow a pattern of swift personnel adjustments under the current CDF, including earlier changes in military intelligence leadership.

Observers note that such steps show a clear emphasis on maintaining high standards of professionalism, readiness, and integrity throughout the force.

Compounding the sense of heightened alertness around the Ministry of Defence and UPDF headquarters in Mbuya, residents and eyewitnesses reported a substantial and visible presence of Special Forces Command (SFC) personnel and equipment in the area on both Thursday and Friday.

Multiple accounts described units positioned near critical installations in a manner described as more pronounced than typical routine activities.

While defence officials have not issued any formal explanation linking the deployments to the reported detentions or other specific incidents, the timing has fueled public discussion and online commentary.

Kasenyi, a site historically tied to advanced training and secure operations, is now serving as the holding location for the two generals as any internal processes continue.

The absence of public comment from UPDF spokespersons has left room for speculation, though the military has consistently maintained that such internal reviews are routine mechanisms for strengthening institutional effectiveness.

The situation remains dynamic. Further details are anticipated as proceedings advance, with potential implications for command structures and ongoing reform initiatives aimed at bolstering the UPDF’s operational cohesion and public trust.

Security has been tense since opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine slipped out of intelligence radars, allegedly keeping clear in cat and mouse game until he slipped out of the country earlier this month.

Several police officers who were assigned to his security have been arrested while intelligence commanders are said to be facing tough questions.