The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has dismissed criminal allegations attributed to Lt Herbert Matanda Mabonga against the army, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and President Yoweri Museveni, describing them as unsubstantiated claims.
In a statement issued in Kampala on Thursday, October 1, 2026, Col Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, said the allegations circulating on social media were allegedly based on forgeries and doctored images.
Magezi described Mabonga as a UPDF deserter and said he was formerly a junior officer attached to the Chieftancy of Defence Intelligence and Security.
According to the UPDF, Mabonga was transferred to the Mountain Infantry Division headquarters in Fort Portal in April 2026 for reassignment, but failed to report to his new duty station.
“He did not report to his new duty station and was subsequently declared AWOL,” Magezi said.
He added that Mabonga’s status was later upgraded from being absent without official leave (AWOL) to desertion, and that he has been on the run since.
The UPDF further accused Mabonga of being wanted over allegations of extorting money from business groups and individuals in Kampala and other areas.
Magezi also alleged that the former officer was involved in fraudulent transactions and the forgery of land titles.
The UPDF said Mabonga would be arrested and brought before military justice.
“The indisciplined and criminal minded junior officer, who it appears was also disgruntled in his line of duty, will be arrested and brought to military justice,” Magezi said.
The statement was signed by Col Magezi on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs and the UPDF.
