The Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) have refuted reports alleging that one of Dr. Col. (Retired) Besigye’s lawyers, Maj. (Retired) Ronald Iduli, was abducted.
In a statement, the UPDF spokesperson, Brigadier General Felix Kulayigye, said that Iduli, a lawyer and retired UPDF officer, was arrested for defaulting on rent for 10 months. He further stated that Iduli also threatened his landlady with violence.
“As a people’s Defence Force, we condemn the conduct of retired Maj. Iduli, and as law-abiding citizens, we urge everyone to allow the police to do their work,” said Kulayigye.
He also stated that during Iduli’s arrest, the police found military stores in his possession.
“Our laws are very clear on which type of uniform one retains upon retirement. As a lawyer who at one time practiced law in the forces, he must be knowledgeable on the matter, and we shall cooperate with the police where necessary to ensure the case is legally and logically concluded,” he said.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Major Iduli had been picked up from his home in Bulenga around 4:00 a.m. by military personnel, accompanied by police officers. This occurred the night before Dr. Kizza Besigye reappeared before the General Court Martial.
One of Besigye’s lawyers, Eron Kiiza, claimed this was not an arrest but rather a kidnapping, as the process did not follow formal procedures required for an arrest.
