Ex-CMI Boss James Birungi Denied Bail, Remanded Over Treachery Charges
Former Ugandan Chief of Military Intelligence Maj. Gen. James Birungi has been denied bail and remains in military prison on charges of treachery and security-related offenses. The case involves allegations of fabricated intelligence reports and the misuse of operational funds.
Why it matters
The prosecution of a high-ranking intelligence official highlights internal instability and accountability issues within Uganda's military establishment.
The General Court Martial has denied bail to former Chief of Military Intelligence (CMI) Maj. Gen. James Birungi after he failed to produce sureties, extending his stay at Makindye Military Prison in a case that has exposed alleged misconduct within Uganda’s military intelligence establishment.
Birungi, who headed the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence—now the Chieftaincy of Defence Intelligence and Security (CDIS)—will remain on remand until July 31, when the military court chaired by Brig. Gen. Richard Tukacungurwa is expected to deliver its ruling.
He is charged with treachery and offences relating to security, becoming one of the most senior serving or former UPDF intelligence officers to face prosecution before the General Court Martial.
Birungi was arrested in August 2025 following a Board of Inquiry chaired by Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, which investigated intelligence and counter-terrorism operations within the military.
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