Kampala — The Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has ordered the release of Johnson Namanya from military detention following what officials described as an amicable meeting that cleared him of all allegations.
Confirmation of the development was made by Col Chris Magezi, Military Assistant to the Chief of Defence Forces, who stated that Brig Gen Namanya had been exonerated and would immediately resume his duties.
“The Chief of Defence Forces… has today released Brig Gen Johnson Namanya from detention after an amicable and friendly meeting in which the latter was cleared of all allegations levelled against him,” Magezi said. “Brig Gen Namanya will resume his military duties accordingly.”
In a separate message shared on social media, Gen Kainerugaba struck a conciliatory tone, emphasising longstanding ties between the two officers.
“It is always good to reconnect with an old comrade. We went through a lot of tough experiences together as young men (young officers),” he said. “That camaraderie should continue now that we are in our 50s. Karibu tena kazini ndugu Namanya!”
The circumstances surrounding Brig Gen Namanya’s earlier detention had not been publicly detailed, but his release signals a resolution within the military leadership.
Observers say the swift clearance and reinstatement underscore efforts to maintain cohesion within the ranks of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), particularly among senior officers.
Brig Gen Namanya is now expected to return to active service with immediate effect.
