Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has turned his criticism towards Vice President Jessica Alupo, accusing her of allegedly supporting retired General Peter Elwelu amid an unfolding security controversy. Elwelu was arrested and detained on November 2 over allegations of subversive activities and plans to destabilise the Teso region. Muhoozi has warned that Alupo could face consequences if allegations linking her to support for Elwelu's alleged activities are confirmed.
The accusations introduce a new political dimension to the controversy surrounding Elwelu, whose arrest and detention have attracted considerable public attention and raised questions about divisions within Uganda's security establishment. According to claims attributed to Muhoozi, the CDF has threatened that Alupo could soon lose her position as Vice President if her alleged involvement is established. The accusations are particularly significant because Alupo hails from the Teso sub-region, where Elwelu also has strong historical and social connections.
Muhoozi reportedly claimed to enjoy considerable support in Teso, suggesting that Alupo's political position should not be interpreted as giving her protection against possible action over the allegations. The remarks come amid growing political anxiety in Teso following Elwelu's arrest. Military spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi previously said security forces had recovered 15 firearms, military fatigues and two pickup trucks allegedly linked to the retired general.
The controversy has drawn intervention from political leaders in Teso, with members of the Teso Parliamentary Group recently meeting Alupo and appealing to President Yoweri Museveni and Muhoozi to resolve the matter amicably. They warned that the arrest had created anxiety within the sub-region. The developments place additional pressure on the Vice President, particularly given her political standing and connections in eastern Uganda.
However, there is no independently established evidence proving that Alupo supported Elwelu's alleged activities. The accusations remain claims attributed to Muhoozi and have not been publicly substantiated. The CDF's threat to have the Vice President dismissed has also raised questions about the constitutional and political implications of a serving military commander publicly announcing the possible removal of a senior government official.
As of November 10, 2026, no official announcement has been made by President Museveni or the government indicating that Alupo has been removed from office. She remains Uganda's Vice President. The developments come at a sensitive moment for the country's security establishment, with Elwelu's detention, Muhoozi's public statements and growing concern among Teso leaders placing the relationship between the military, political leadership and regional communities under renewed scrutiny.
The situation highlights the complex relationships between Uganda's military, political leadership and regional communities. The Teso Parliamentary Group's intervention and Muhoozi's accusations underscore the growing tensions and anxiety in the region. The outcome of the situation remains uncertain, with various stakeholders closely watching the developments.
Key points
- Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba accuses VP Jessica Alupo of allegedly supporting retired Gen. Peter Elwelu amid security controversy.
- The accusations have raised questions about the constitutional implications of a serving military commander publicly announcing the possible removal of a senior government official.
- The situation highlights the complex relationships between Uganda's military, political leadership and regional communities.
