Uganda’s Ex-Police Chief Kayihura Rehabilitated, Ties with Rwanda Restored

Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has moved to rehabilitate former Inspector General of Police, Kale Kayihura, in a development seen as a step toward strengthening ties with Rwanda.

Kayihura, once a powerful figure in Uganda’s security establishment, had fallen out of favour in recent years, facing charges and a strained political future. His return to the fold under Kainerugaba’s influence marks a significant shift in Kampala’s security and diplomatic dynamics.

Both Kayihura and Kainerugaba maintain longstanding personal and professional connections to Rwanda, a factor analysts say could help re-establish smoother relations between Kampala and Kigali after years of tension.

The move signals President Yoweri Museveni’s willingness to consolidate alliances within Uganda’s security apparatus while easing cross-border frictions with Rwanda, a neighbour critical to regional stability and trade.