Hearing Set for NUP Security Head on Military Equipment Charges

(Kampala) – Achileo Kivumbi, the head of security for the National Unity Platform (NUP), remains in custody at Luzira Prison following accusations of unlawfully possessing military equipment. Kivumbi, who was arrested on August 3, 2024, in Nansana Municipality, Wakiso District, is alleged to have been found with a pair of Lieutenant Colonel pips, an item classified as defense stores under Ugandan law.

The charges against Kivumbi are serious, with the offense falling under section 158 (1) (2) (c) of the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) Act, Cap 330. If convicted, Kivumbi could face up to seven years in prison. The General Court Martial, presided over by Brig. Gen. Freeman Mugabe, has remanded Kivumbi until the next court date.

On Tuesday, September 2, 2024, Lt. Col. Raphael Mugisha, representing the prosecution, informed the court that the investigation into Kivumbi’s case is complete and requested that the court set a hearing date for October 8, 2024. The defense, led by lawyer George Musisi, has asked the prosecution to disclose the evidence they plan to use against Kivumbi in preparation for the upcoming trial. Musisi also requested that the court respond to Kivumbi’s bail application before September 24, 2024, when the accused is expected to reappear in court.

Kivumbi, who is 42 years old, identifies as a driver and resides in Nansana East ‘B’ Zone, Nansana Municipality, Wakiso District. The prosecution has argued that Kivumbi is subject to military law under section 117 (1) (h) (ii) of the UPDF Act, Cap 330, which applies to individuals connected with military personnel or activities.

Kivumbi’s defense team is working to prepare for the trial, awaiting the state’s response to their requests.

NUP Official Remanded, Awaits Trial for Possessing Military Items