The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has expressed concern over the arrest of retired Lieutenant General Peter Elwelu, demanding answers from security agencies regarding his detention. ULS President Isaac Ssemakadde cautioned security agencies against conducting a trial by media, emphasizing that public accusations should not replace established legal procedures. Elwelu was arrested in Soroti City on November 2 after weeks of public accusations by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Ssemakadde reminded security agencies that arrested persons must be presented before court within 48 hours and granted reasonable access to their relatives and personal doctors. He also emphasized that Elwelu remains entitled to constitutional protection, including access to legal representation, a fair hearing, and the presumption of innocence. Article 23 of the Constitution protects the liberty of every individual and requires authorities to explain the reasons for an arrest while allowing suspects access to lawyers of their choice.
The ULS has particularly warned against a repeat of questionable practices in the case of opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye, including alleged interference with lawyers, restrictions on legal representation, and opaque legal proceedings. The society has invited Elwelu's family, lawyer, and personal doctor to its offices in Kololo to discuss measures to protect his rights and prevent possible procedural abuses.
Elwelu's arrest comes after an extraordinary public showdown with the serving army chief. On October 27, Muhoozi announced that he had stripped Elwelu of his military ranks and demoted him to Private, branding him a traitor. The CDF subsequently claimed that security forces had arrested more than 20 former soldiers who previously served under Elwelu and were cooperating with investigators.
The army confirmed Elwelu's arrest, with its Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, claiming that security personnel recovered 15 guns, military fatigues, and two pickup trucks allegedly connected to Elwelu. Magezi said the former deputy army chief had been on the run over alleged involvement in subversive activities and would be taken to court. However, the UPDF did not disclose the charges being investigated or the location where Elwelu was being detained.
The retired officer is no stranger to controversy, having previously served as Deputy Chief of Defence Forces and Commander of the Land Forces. The ULS has demanded that security agencies explain the legal grounds for Elwelu's arrest, disclose where he is being held, and confirm whether he has been allowed to communicate with his family and legal team.
The ULS also criticized public declarations that appear to pronounce suspects guilty before they have had their day in court. The society wants to ensure that Elwelu's rights are protected and that he is granted a fair trial.
Key points
- The Uganda Law Society demands answers from security agencies over Elwelu's arrest and detention.
- Elwelu was arrested in Soroti City on November 2 after weeks of public accusations by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
- The ULS warns against a repeat of questionable practices in the case of opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye.
