8 UPDF Soldiers among 31 Remanded for Overthrow Plot

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Summary:

• The Uganda People’s Defense Forces-UPDF General Court Martial has remanded 31 suspects, including eight soldiers and civilians, on charges of plotting to overthrow the government, with the trial adjourned until January 22, 2024, as part of ongoing investigations, while other Court Martial cases involve treachery-related charges and the murder of police officers.

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The General Court Martial convened in Makindye by the Uganda People’s Defense Forces-UPDF has ordered the remand of 31 individuals, including eight military personnel, to Luzira and Military Police Barracks. The charges stem from an alleged conspiracy to overthrow the legitimate government of Uganda.

Among the accused are Captain Denish Oola Oyaa, an Operations Training Officer with the 6 Tank Battalion; Lieutenant Benjamin Oduru, a Staff Officer; Warrant Officer 2 Oryek Sunday Jenaro, a Tank Engine Technician; Sergeant Bernard Morris Leku (also known as Peter Anguadia, a deserter); Corporal John Elatu, a gunner with the 6 Tank Battalion in Singo; Corporal Ronald Keuber, a driver/Mechanic with the 1 Tank Battalion; Corporal David Olal, a Police officer; and Lance Corporal Moses Anyang, a Tank Operator/Nurse with the 6 Tank Battalion.

The remaining soldiers are affiliated with the Armoured Brigade Headquarters. The military personnel face charges alongside civilians, including plumbers, teachers, and a pastor. Notable among the civilians are Judith Angwech, a pastor from Alebtong district; Simon Oyoma, a pastor from Soroti City; Daniel Owitti (also known as Ott or ODM), a Social worker from Adjumani District; Fabio Ocen, a builder from Kole District; Muhammad Ijosiga, a peasant from Arua district; Stanley Yiacia (also known as Simple), a Marketeer from Maracha; Anthony Kamau Omacj, a teacher from Dokolo District; Joaquin Parm, an electrician from Nebbi District; Abdu Hakim Koloboka, a security guard from Yumbe District; Habibu Ezale, a mechanic from Koboko District; Ssebi Keppo, a peasant from Arua District, among others.

Chaired by Brigadier General Freeman Robert Mugabe, the Court Martial charged the group with alleged treachery, as defined in the Uganda People’s Defense Forces Act. The prosecution, led by Lt Col Raphael Mugisha, Lt Alex Lasto Mukhwana, and Private Regina Nanzala, indicated ongoing investigations and requested an adjournment. Legal representation was provided by Captain Simon Nsubuga Busagwa and Private Pricilla Kakande.

The accused have been remanded until January 22nd, 2024, for further proceedings as investigations continue. This trial is part of several Court Martial cases involving treachery-related charges. Additionally, a separate group of 23 suspects faces charges of treachery and the murder of Mityana and Kiboga police officers, allegedly absconding with their firearms.

Acting as purported agents of the Uganda National Coalition, these groups engaged in activities against the government, recruiting individuals, and attacking security posts, posing a threat to Uganda’s security. The trial is progressing and at an advanced stage. Furthermore, three individuals allegedly affiliated with the Allied Democratic Forces recently faced similar charges and are presently on remand.