Peter Elwelu arrested in Uganda over alleged destabilisation plot

Ugandan security forces have arrested Peter Elwelu, a former deputy military chief and current presidential adviser, following allegations of his involvement in a plot to destabilise the country. The arrest marks a significant downfall for a high-ranking officer who was recently a key figure in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Acting military spokespersons have described Elwelu as a "renegade" officer, signalling a sharp rift between the former commander and the current military leadership.

The detention follows military operations that reportedly uncovered caches of weapons linked to the former deputy chief. Authorities accuse Elwelu of organising subversive activities intended to undermine national security. These developments come shortly after the military announced his demotion and the stripping of his official military rank. While the state has framed the arrest as a necessary step to maintain internal stability, Elwelu’s family has publicly maintained his innocence, suggesting the charges may be part of an internal power struggle.

Elwelu’s arrest follows a period of increasing pressure on his career and reputation. Before his detention, the United States government imposed human rights sanctions against him, citing his involvement in past abuses. His transition from a top-tier military leader to a "renegade" suspect has heightened tensions within Uganda’s political and military establishments. The case is expected to have broader implications for the UPDF's internal cohesion as the government continues its investigation into the alleged subversion.