The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has taken decisive action in his ongoing battle against corruption within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). On Monday, Gen Kainerugaba announced the arrest of Brigadier General Cyrus Besigye Bekunda, the Joint Staff Chief of Engineering, along with several other officers from the Engineers Brigade. These arrests follow serious allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement in the military’s engineering division.
In a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Gen Kainerugaba expressed deep disappointment with the officers involved, saying:
“Yesterday, I ordered the arrest of Brig Bekunda Besigye and other officers of the Engineers Brigade. They betrayed a core UPDF principle of self-sufficiency and efficiency. They took money and misused it! Let their punishment serve as a warning to others.”
This bold move is part of Gen Kainerugaba’s vigorous campaign to eradicate corruption within the army. He has repeatedly emphasized that corrupt behavior will not be tolerated in the UPDF. Earlier this year, in February 2024, he condemned corrupt practices at the College of Logistics and Engineering (COLE) in Magamaga, Jinja. Addressing officers during a retreat on logistics and inventory management, he stressed that misuse of resources undermines the army’s mission to safeguard the nation and support its personnel.
“Anyone involved in selfish acts—whether corruption, resource misappropriation, or mismanagement—must reform immediately or leave the UPDF before being exposed,” he warned.
The arrest of Brig Gen Bekunda sends a powerful message: no one, regardless of rank, is above the law. Gen Kainerugaba’s actions underscore his commitment to preserving the army’s integrity and restoring public confidence. By holding corrupt officers accountable, he aims to foster a culture of discipline, honesty, and responsibility throughout the UPDF.
This latest development highlights the UPDF’s dedication to professionalism and transparency. As the anti-corruption drive continues, many are closely watching to see who else might face consequences and whether Gen Kainerugaba’s firm approach will bring lasting reform.
