Uganda Law Society President Isaac Ssemakadde said authorities had not formally confirmed whether Elwelu had been arrested.
Elwelu’s movement was reportedly restricted at an undisclosed location in eastern Uganda following allegations of plotting to destabilise parts of the country. “It’s not yet confirmed whether it’s an arrest. That’s the state of the rule of law in Uganda,” Ssemakadde said.
The military reportedly announced that Elwelu had been captured after Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba made social media statements accusing the retired military officer of subversive activity.
Ssemakadde said Kainerugaba had claimed Elwelu had been stripped of rank and threatened with being shot on sight.
The Uganda Law Society called for Elwelu to receive full constitutional protection, including access to legal representation and appearance before a court if formally detained.
“The law should take its course,” Ssemakadde said. “If this is an arrest in the constitutional sense, Elwelu should be guaranteed due process and full protection of all constitutional rights.”
Elwelu’s family has denied the allegations.
Ssemakadde questioned the credibility of the case, saying Elwelu had not been summoned to assist police investigations or given adequate notice of the allegations.
Some government officials and presidential advisers had subsequently adopted a less confrontational tone and referred to lawful procedures and possible negotiations, Ssemakadde said.
Reports that Elwelu could face treachery charges have also raised concern because the offence can carry the death penalty under military law.
Ssemakadde said proceedings before a military court could undermine the prospect of a fair trial.
“The military court martial was declared unconstitutional last year,” Ssemakadde said, adding that continuing legal challenges surrounded subsequent efforts to revive the system.
The case comes as Kainerugaba’s stated intention to contest the Presidency in 2031 fuels debate over succession after President Yoweri Museveni’s decades in power.
The Uganda Law Society said authorities should disclose Elwelu’s location, legal status and any charges without delay.
–ChannelAfrica—
