In a recent event in Kisoro Municipality, Gen (Rtd) Kale Kayihura, the former Inspector General of Police, revealed that he will not pursue a career in elective politics. He made this statement during a celebration of his retirement from the army at Saaza Grounds.
Gen Kayihura retired from the army after being acquitted of charges related to illegal repatriation of Rwandan refugees and failure to protect war materials in a court martial. He expressed gratitude towards President Museveni for carefully investigating the accusations and recognizing that he had no case to answer.
During his retirement event, Gen Kayihura thanked various individuals for their support during his trial, including Kisoro District chairperson Abel Bizimana, Gen Andrew Gutti (former court martial chairman), Gen Wilson Mbadi (Chief of Defence Forces), Gen David Muhoozi (State Minister for Internal Affairs), Maj Gen James Mugira, Maj Gen Sam Kavuma, and his legal team. He also acknowledged the support of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Gen Salim Saleh Akandwanaho, and his wife Jovia.
Gen Kayihura emphasized the importance of love and unity, quoting the Bible’s commandment to “love your neighbors as you love yourself.” He expressed his gratitude to his family for standing by him during his troubles.
Additionally, he stated that he would continue to be a proud retired military officer until his death.
The event featured ecumenical prayers led by religious leaders, including Muhabura Diocese Bishop Godfrey Mbitse, Fr Emmanuel Safari from Kabale Diocese, and Sheikh Bakore-Shafi Kahuba from Kisoro Muslim district. Bishop Mbitse highlighted the importance of unity among people and expressed gratitude for Gen Kayihura’s freedom.
Local leaders, including Rose Kabagyeni (former Kisoro District Woman Member Of Parliament), James Nsaba Buturo (Bufumbira East legislator), and Abel Bizimana, urged Gen Kayihura to join them in promoting development in the district and advocating for the fulfillment of presidential pledges, such as expanding the Kisoro airstrip, tarmacking tourism roads, and constructing the John Kale Memorial Institute. They also expressed their support for President Museveni’s government and the strong relationship between Gen Kayihura and the President.
