Lieutenant General Proscovia Nalweyiso, the highest-ranking female officer in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and Presidential Adviser on Military Affairs, has commended citizens for exercising restraint and prioritizing stability after the general presidential and parliamentary elections held nationwide on January 15, 2026.
Speaking on Sanyuka Morning Xpress on Tuesday, Nalweyiso applauded members of the public who refrained from unrest in the aftermath of the polls.
“I appreciate all those who didn’t follow what Kyagulanyi was saying. They understood that the election was over and chose to maintain peace,” she said. “You can’t align yourself with such a leader, he’s still lacking in many areas.”
She described the post-election period as one marked by maturity among citizens, highlighting that the absence of widespread unrest reflects a collective commitment to national stability.
Nalweyiso’s remarks come as Kyagulanyi announced on Saturday that he is temporarily leaving Uganda after approximately eight weeks operating from undisclosed locations.
He said he intends to engage internationally regarding the election outcome.
“I am announcing my brief exit from the country to handle important work. Over the next few weeks, I will engage with our friends in the diaspora before returning to Uganda to continue the push for freedom and democracy,” he stated in a social media video.
During his absence, Kyagulanyi appointed NUP Vice President for Western Uganda, Dr. Lina Zedriga Waru, recently released from prison, to serve as the party’s acting president.
Kyagulanyi, who has been in hiding since the day after the polls, claimed he had to evade “snatch squads” during what he described as a heavy military siege around his residence.
“The regime has looked for me everywhere. They have raided the homes of many colleagues, but they couldn’t find me because the people of Uganda sheltered me and protected me,” he said.
Since the January 15 election, Kyagulanyi has rejected the results, labeling them “fake” and alleging manipulation by the Electoral Commission, although no substantial evidence has been provided.
On January 16, 2026, he reportedly left his Magere residence for safety after an alleged raid.
Despite controversy, Kyagulanyi has chosen not to challenge the results in court, citing a lack of faith in the judiciary.
Instead, he has encouraged supporters to engage in peaceful protests, framing them as a show of solidarity against what he describes as a stolen election.
Government officials have dismissed claims of political persecution. Minister for Information and Communications Technology and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, stated that the government has no intention of arresting or harming Kyagulanyi.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja urged him to stop what she called “comedy” and return to his family.
Addressing suggestions by UPDF officials about a pursuit of Kyagulanyi, Baryomunsi clarified that security deployments around his Magere residence are intended to prevent public disorder, not to threaten or detain him.
Police have reiterated that their presence is for security and will remain until Kyagulanyi returns.
On the opposition leader’s movements, Nalweyiso said there were no restrictions on his travel within Uganda.
“I believe Kyagulanyi has been touring Uganda, and anyone can leave the country as long as they are not being actively pursued,” she said.
She further noted that Uganda’s border points remain open and accessible, allowing citizens to move freely.
“We have about six border points that can be used. Kyagulanyi left the country because no one was looking for him,” she added.
Nalweyiso concluded by stating that, to her knowledge, no security deliberations have designated Kyagulanyi as a wanted person.
“I have never attended any meeting where Kyagulanyi was being discussed as a wanted person. He is free to leave the country and return,” she affirmed.
