Senior Reporter
Former Inspector General of Police, Retired General Kale Kayihura, strongly refutes recent reports suggesting that he was pardoned for all the charges against him.
Kayihura, who had been facing two counts related to the failure to protect war materials and aiding the kidnapping and repatriation of Rwandan exiles, refugees, and Ugandan citizens to Rwanda between 2012 and 2016, maintains that he was cleared of these charges because he is innocent. He believes that he was falsely accused by individuals with their own agendas.
Kayihura made these statements during his homecoming celebration at Shaza Playground in Kisoro Municipality yesterday. He was acquitted of all charges by the Court Martial in Kampala in August of this year, which led to his release.
During his address, Kayihura praised President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his integrity and thoughtful decision-making process, emphasizing that it was not rushed. He also expressed gratitude to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their commitment to justice.
Kayihura specifically acknowledged several members of the military force, including Lieutenant Andrew Gutti, General Muhoozi Keinerugaba, and General Akandwanaho Caleb, also known as Salim Sale.
This was Kayihura’s first visit to Kisoro District since 2021, and he was warmly welcomed by the people of the region. He thanked the people of Kisoro, led by District Chairman Abel Bizimana, for their support during his retirement as a proud military officer. He emphasized that he does not have any political aspirations.
During a sermon, Rt Rev. Godfrey Mbitse, the Bishop of Muhabura Diocese, encouraged believers to consistently perform acts of kindness and nurture love. He stressed the importance of leaving a positive legacy, citing General Kayihura as an example.
Kisoro District LCV Chairman Abel Bizimana congratulated General Kale for enduring the challenges of his imprisonment and travel ban, attributing the positive outcome to answered prayers.
