KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has dismissed a New Vision report suggesting that President Yoweri Museveni assured former Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen Peter Elwelu of his personal safety before he surrendered to security forces.

In a statement issued on Thursday, UPDF spokesperson Col Chris Magezi said the report was misleading, arguing that Elwelu gave himself up peacefully because security forces had closed in on him.

Magezi disputed the suggestion that Elwelu surrendered voluntarily, saying he had no viable alternative as security forces closed in.

“It is misleading to suggest that Peter Elwelu surrendered out of his own volition,” Magezi said.

He also denied that Museveni, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, had offered Elwelu assurances of personal safety at any point.

The statement follows a New Vision report published on Thursday, November 5, 2026, titled “Deal That Saw Elwelu Surrender: Museveni Assured Him of Personal Safety.”

Magezi said the President had full confidence in the judgment and actions of security forces to take all necessary measures to maintain peace, order and stability in the country.

He added that Museveni was a strong proponent of discipline among members of the security forces, including those serving under the Reserve Force.

The UPDF spokesperson said anyone who breaks Ugandan law would be held accountable without fear or favour.

“Accordingly, Peter Elwelu will be held fully accountable for his actions in the UPDF General Court Martial,” Magezi said.

Elwelu's arrest was announced earlier this week after security forces reportedly apprehended him in Soroti City over alleged subversive activities and plans to destabilise Teso.

Magezi previously said security forces had recovered 15 guns, military fatigues and two pickup trucks allegedly in Elwelu's possession.

The UPDF has not publicly disclosed further details about the specific charges Elwelu is expected to face.