Peter Elwelu
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Retired Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu is expected to face the General Court Martial following his dramatic arrest in Soroti City on Monday evening, November 2, 2026, as the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) finalises investigations into allegations that he was stockpiling weapons to launch a rebellion in the Teso sub-region.
The former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces is currently being held at a secure facility as joint security teams conclude investigations ahead of his arraignment before the military court.
UPDF spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi confirmed that Elwelu would be formally charged and prosecuted in accordance with military law, although the exact charges are still being finalised.
The arrest followed a weeks-long manhunt during which Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba publicly accused the retired general of treachery, disloyalty and engaging in activities intended to destabilise the country.
According to allegations made by the army leadership, Elwelu had accumulated weapons and was preparing to organise a rebellion in Teso. The military subsequently launched operations to dismantle what it described as his network, detaining more than 20 former soldiers allegedly associated with him.
Security teams also arrested his driver and seized the last vehicle he was reportedly using, as the manhunt intensified.
The operation involved several raids on properties associated with the retired general, resulting in the recovery of 15 firearms, ammunition, military fatigues and two pickup trucks.
These recoveries are expected to form an important part of the prosecution’s evidence, particularly if investigators establish that the weapons were intended for activities aimed at undermining national security.
Gen. Muhoozi had earlier issued a public ultimatum demanding that Elwelu surrender, warning that he risked being officially declared a rebel commander.
Orders were subsequently issued to capture him alive, culminating in the coordinated operation by joint security forces that tracked him down in Soroti City.
Elwelu had reportedly gone into hiding during the manhunt, at one point seeking refuge in local swamps amid fears for his personal security.
Charges and military court proceedings
Although the formal chargesheet is yet to be made public, the allegations point towards possible charges relating to subversive activities, treason and illegal possession of firearms.
Investigators are expected to rely on the weapons recovered during the raids, vehicles seized by security personnel and statements from soldiers previously arrested in connection with the alleged network.
More than 20 former soldiers could potentially provide testimony linking Elwelu to the activities under investigation, although their involvement and the evidential value of their statements will have to be established during the proceedings.
Once investigations are completed, Elwelu will be arraigned before the General Court Martial, which is chaired by Brig. Gen. Richard Tukongura.
The military court is operating under the restored powers of the UPDF Amendment Act 2025. During his first appearance, Elwelu will be required to respond to the charges read against him by entering a plea.
If he denies the accusations, the prosecution will have to present evidence to establish his guilt beyond reasonable doubt. This will include demonstrating the circumstances under which the firearms and ammunition were recovered and establishing any connection between the retired general and the alleged plans to destabilise Teso.
Uncertainty over his military rank
Another issue likely to attract attention during the proceedings is Elwelu’s military status following his arrest.
Gen. Muhoozi publicly announced that the retired general had been stripped of his ranks and reduced to the level of a Private.
The announcement has raised questions about the legal process through which a retired Lieutenant General can be demoted without formal military disciplinary proceedings.
Following the arrest, however, Col. Magezi referred to Elwelu as an officer rather than a General, leaving questions about his officially recognised rank and the implications for the composition of the court that will try him.
If the demotion is legally recognised, the military could proceed with his trial under the arrangements applicable to a lower-ranking soldier. If he retains his former senior status, questions could arise over the appropriate composition of the court martial, including the requirement for officers of equivalent or higher rank.
Calls for a fair trial
Elwelu’s arrest has generated considerable public interest because of his former senior position in the UPDF and the serious nature of the allegations against him.
Several public figures and legal commentators have called for the state to ensure that he receives a fair and prompt trial before a competent court, regardless of the accusations against him.
Ambassador Nelson Ocheger is among those who have publicly urged authorities to respect due process.
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