The General Court Martial has remanded Achilleo Kivumbi, the civilian head of security for the National Unity Platform (NUP), to Luzira Prison. Kivumbi was arrested last week by security operatives near his home in Nansana, Wakiso District.
Kivumbi, who appeared in court today, faces charges of illegal possession of military insignia, specifically Lieutenant Colonel pips. Despite his attempts to secure bail, Kivumbi remains in custody and is scheduled to return to court on September 2.
This development comes amidst ongoing tensions involving NUP supporters, many of whom have been in remand since the 2021 presidential campaigns. Kivumbi’s arrest, which saw him manhandled and forcibly taken by armed men, has drawn criticism from NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi, who claims the charges are politically motivated.
According to the charge sheet, Kivumbi, 42, was found in possession of military pips on August 3, 2024, in Nansana East II B Zone, Wakiso District. The state alleges this is a breach of the UPDF Act, Cap 330, which governs the possession of defense stores.
Kivumbi’s case is part of a broader pattern of legal challenges faced by NUP members, many of whom have been denied bail multiple times since their arrests.
